TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free School Counselor Cover Letter Example
Use this free template to write a cover letter for any school counselor role. Simply follow the instructions and fill in the blanks.
Your name
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[OPTIONAL: Department Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.
The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.
Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.
Sincerely,
— Your Full Name
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How to Write a School Counselor Cover Letter
If you're starting to write a cover letter, the example below will help you identify must-have sections and what to include in each one.
Now that you've got an idea of the cover letter basics let's dive into the details of optimizing your letter to land a specific role.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
First, your school counselor cover letter must include a header with key details like the letter's date, recipient, and a formal greeting. This header follows the standard business letter format and conveys professionalism.
Strong cover letter header example:
April 10, 2025
Mr. Thomas Harper
Director of Student Services
Riverside High School
123 Education Lane
Atlanta, GA 30301
Dear Mr. Harper,
Weak cover letter header example:
Date: 10/11/2023
To whom it may concern,
Samantha Green
122 Fake St.
Fictionland
samanth.green@email
Call me: 555-876-5432
French Valley Public Shool
Attention: Mr. Joehnsmuth
456 Wrong Way Ave.
Unknownville, UW 12345
PRO TIP
If you can't find the hiring manager's name, you can address your cover letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.“ but never use the generic “To Whom It May Concern.“
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
The first paragraph of your cover letter should serve as an introduction to recruiters and explicitly state your interest in the position. Make a memorable impression by describing yourself with key skills or unique achievements that show you're the perfect candidate for the school counselor role.
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a certified counselor with 5 years of experience in educational settings, I am eager to apply for the school counselor position at Harmony Education Center. My expertise in developing student engagement programs was instrumental in improving student participation rates by 30%. I am passionate about supporting students' academic and personal growth, aligning perfectly with Harmony Education Center's mission.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hey, I'm interested in the school counselor position at Sunnydale School. I've done some related work and picked up skills along the way. Excited to chat more about it!
PRO TIP
If a current employee has referred you for this position, mention this in the opening paragraph. Our referral cover letter openings article shows you how to do this.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph should be chock-full of relevant achievements and skills. However, avoid repeating what you said in your resume. You can also take this opportunity to show recruiters you're a great cultural fit in the company by sharing more details about who you are as a person.
Strong body paragraph example:
In my role as a school counselor, I effectively increased student engagement by 30% through targeted intervention programs that addressed academic and social challenges. My ability to empathetically communicate and mediate conflicts led to a 25% decrease in disciplinary actions. These successes highlight my skills in problem-solving and relationship-building. I am eager to bring my organizational prowess and passion for student success to your school community, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Weak body paragraph example:
I am applying for the school counselor position because I hope to help students. I'm not fully experienced in counseling but I'm eager to learn. I haven't had much opportunity to work in schools, but I'm motivated to succeed. If given a chance, I am sure I might eventually be helpful.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
In the cover letter's closing paragraph, you seal the deal with potential employers by summarizing your best qualifications and expressing your genuine interest in a job interview. Include a sign-off and your name; you've completed a professional cover letter!
Strong closing paragraph:
My Master’s in School Counseling and proven ability to foster a supportive, inclusive environment for students make me well-suited for the counselor role at Lincoln High School. I am eager to bring my skills and passion for student development to your esteemed institution. Thank you for considering my application. I hope to discuss in an interview how I can contribute to your team.
Best regards,
Emma Taylor
Weak closing paragraph:
I think I could work well as a school counselor at your school because I try to be nice and like talking to people. If you think I might fit in, please consider reaching out. Thank you for reading my application, and I hope to join your team.
Best regards,
Michelle Lee
See? Writing a cover letter for your school counselor role can be easy with the right help. Check out our Cover Letter Builder for an even faster and more efficient way to create a custom cover letter tailored to your target job.
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for School Counselor
These are some of the most sought-after skills for school counselor roles. When describing your accomplishments, incorporate an equal mix of hard skills and soft skills into your letter.
- Empathy
- Active Listening
- Crisis Intervention
- Behavioral Assessment
- Cultural Competence
- Conflict Resolution
- Developmental Psychology
- Career Guidance
- Group Counseling
- Special Education Knowledge
- School Policy Understanding
- Data Analysis
Find more skills and content suggestions that make sense for your school counselor cover letter using our Cover Letter Builder to create a custom document. By simply sharing your desired job and writing style, we'll generate a letter in minutes!
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