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Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples

Apply for jobs confidently with our substitute teacher cover letter examples. These samples and writing guide are all you need to create an application letter that lands a job.

Gabriela Hernandez
Written by Gabriela Hernandez
Last Updated: July 2, 2025

Free Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this free cover letter template, fill in the blanks and use the instructions on each section to write an effective cover letter.

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 Substitute Teacher Cover Letter

The easiest way to write a cover letter is to take it section by section. Every professional cover letter should include the sections highlighted in the cover letter sample.

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Now, let's go into detail on what to include and what to avoid in each cover letter section. Use this step-by-step guide to write a standout substitute teacher cover letter.

STEP 1

Format your cover letter’s header correctly

Every cover letter must have a properly formatted header. In this first section, you'll share the letter's date, details about the recipient and a formal greeting.

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Strong cover letter header example:

May 09, 2025

 

Mr. Robert Johnson

Lead Administrator

Greenwood School District

1234 Elm Street, Anytown, CA 90210

 

Dear Mr. Johnson,

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Weak cover letter header example:

Date: 99/99/9999
To whoever it may consider,
Billie Jo Bob
53355 Chaos Lane
Nowhere, WX 12345
Phoen: 555-1234-6789
Email: billyjobob@@example.com
Leevland Publick School
Attn: Ms. Mary-Lou Who Drawley
99 Mixup Lane
Somehwer, QY 54321

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PRO TIP

A big cover letter red flag is to greet the letter's recipient with a generic “To Whom It May Concern.“ Instead, personalize the greeting by stating your recipient's name or address a cover letter without a name professionally with “Dear Hiring Manager.“

STEP 2

Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph

How you open your cover letter shapes your first impression on hiring managers. Start strong by highlighting your relevant skills and qualifications, and express your enthusiasm for the specific substitute teacher role.

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Strong opening paragraph example:

As a dedicated educator with five years of experience in the classroom, I am thrilled to apply for the Substitute Teacher position at Springfield Community School. My commitment to fostering a nurturing learning environment aligns with your school's values. In my previous role, I successfully improved student engagement by 30% through the incorporation of interactive teaching methods, enhancing overall academic performance.

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Weak opening paragraph example:

Hi there, I'm super excited about the substitute teacher role at Good Education Ltd. I've dabbled in teaching and feel like this position could be an interesting fit. Looking forward to possibly joining your team!

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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.

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Strong body paragraph example:

My experience in education includes serving as a classroom instructor where I enhanced student engagement by 25% through innovative lesson planning and interactive teaching methods. I have consistently demonstrated strong communication skills and adaptability, crucial for managing diverse classroom environments. My commitment to student success is evident from achieving a 90% student satisfaction rate. I am eager to bring these skills and experiences to a substitute teaching role at your institution.

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Weak body paragraph example:

I am applying for the substitute teacher role as I urgently need employment. While I haven't taught full-time in a school, I enjoy learning and am open to grasping more. I might not have much in classroom experience, but I'm optimistic about adapting. I believe I can manage given the chance.

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!

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Strong closing paragraph:

With a proven track record in fostering engaging learning environments, I am eager to bring my expertise to the talented team at Green Valley School as a substitute teacher. My ability to adapt quickly to different classroom settings makes me a strong candidate for this role. I appreciate your consideration and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute in an interview. Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
Michael Thompson

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Weak closing paragraph:

I am interested in the substitute teacher position and believe I might do okay because I like working with kids. I know there's still a lot to learn, but I am eager to give it a try. If you think I would fit, please let me know. Thank you for considering my application.
Best,
Michael Brown

Our professional advice makes writing a cover letter easy, but the fastest and most efficient way is with our Cover Letter Builder. Take advantage of key features like integrated spell-check, unlimited cloud storage and customizable professional templates.

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Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Substitute Teacher

These are some of the most sought-after skills for substitute teacher roles. When describing your accomplishments, incorporate an equal mix of hard skills and soft skills into your letter.

  1. Classroom Management
  2. Curriculum Adaptation
  3. Student Engagement
  4. Conflict Resolution
  5. Lesson Execution
  6. Grade-Level Knowledge
  1. Clear Communication
  2. Behavioral Strategies
  3. Instructional Support
  4. Technology Integration
  5. Flexibility
  6. Cultural Competence

Find more skills and content suggestions that make sense for your substitute teacher 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!

Related Resources

About the Author

Gabriela Hernandez large profile photo

Gabriela Hernandez CPRW, Career Advice Writer

Gabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She focuses on helping job seekers improve their professional resumes to highlight their unique skills and experience. Gabriela holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of Puerto Rico and offers more than four years of specialized experience helping candidates navigate the complexities of today’s online job market, with a strong focus on resume optimization and effective self-presentation.

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