The first message you send to schools provides an opportunity to showcase your written communication skills. You’ll want to think of this as more of a professional email than an instant message. When replying to a school, consider the following:
1. Personalization Matters
Take time to carefully review their message and any attachments they may have included. Pick out at least one thing that stood out from the school’s profile or the message they sent you to mention in your response. Be sure to:
Express your gratitude and/or excitement
Answer any questions they may have asked
Use the recruiters name if available
2. Your Needs/Interests
If the school included a link to a job post, review it! Make sure you are comfortable with the responsibilities described. If they didn't share a specific opening, let the school know what subjects and grade levels you’re looking to work with.
Let them know if you have any questions up front
Check if they have positions listed on our job board or their careers page and share those that you’d be interested in hearing more about
3. The Sign-Off
Close the message with a formal sign-off. If applicable, let them know your routine availability.
Template 1 |
Dear [RECRUITER NAME],
Thank you for your interest in my profile! I was impressed to see [something that stood out to you about the school]. I am excited to hear more about opportunities at [SCHOOL NAME].
I have [1-2 sentences about relevant experience/skills]. I am confident these experiences will help me connect with students as a [position of interest] at your school.
Please let me know the next steps. I am available [insert routine availability].
Sincerely, [YOUR NAME] |
Example: |
Dear Ms. Smith,
Thank you for your interest in my profile! I was impressed to see the number of AP courses that are offered to your students and I am excited to hear more about opportunities at Selected Academy.
I have 5 years of experience in middle/high school science including teaching Biology, Chemistry, and AP Physics. I also created an after school robotics club at my last school. I am confident these experiences will help me connect with students as a High School Science Teacher at your school.
Please let me know the next steps. I am available any day after 4:00pm as well as 12:00-1:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Sincerely, Taylor |
Template 2 |
Hi [RECRUITER NAME],
It is great to hear from you. After reviewing the job posting I am very interested in learning more about this opportunity [SCHOOL NAME]. It is clear your school [something that stood out to you about the school].
I am curious, [share a question you have here]?
Looking forward to connecting with your team soon.
All my best, [YOUR NAME] |
Example |
Hi Jody,
It is great to hear from you. After reviewing the job posting I am very interested in learning more about this opportunity ABC School. It is clear your school has a collaborative approach to teaching and learning.
I am curious, does this position require Spanish fluency? I am a conversational level speaker and wanted to be transparent about that.
Looking forward to connecting with your team soon.
All my best, Darren |
Patience is Key
Schools receive a lot of messages and applications; it may take some time to get back to you.
We always suggest giving the school at least a week before sending a follow-up message