Resumes for teachers are different from most other jobs. Because of the academic nature, the resume feels much similar to a CV and often has an equal emphasis on past education and previous employment. That’s why it’s tricky to make a resume for a teacher.
This article will show you how to
- appeal to the school with your resume
- Use a resume builder
- Customize for the teacher’s position
- Create supplement materials
The better you tackle each point, the more competitive you are against other candidates!
What a Teaching Position Looks For
Nowadays, schools look for a blend of established reputation, professional qualification, and personality among their teachers. Yes, that’s extremely demanding, but it’s not undoable.
Think about the “good teachers” back during your schooldays and you know exactly how to portray yourself.
You want to be approachable, compassionate, and understanding. You must meet the academic requirements for your position, and you should have a portfolio that backs up your qualifications to teach.
Using a Resume Builder
Now that we know what to put in the resume, let’s get to the writing part. You don’t have to be tech-savvy to create a resume compatible with the school’s online hiring system. Simply use a resume builder!
Choose the template that suits you the best. With a teaching position, you don’t need to be too creative with visualization. Just make sure your template is clean and professional.
Repurposing Old Content
Next, begin copying and pasting from your old resume into the new one you’re building. Since resume builders let you rearrange paragraphs and sections altogether, you’ll have the framework of your new resume in no time.
Make sure you update the timeline and focus on higher-quality jobs you’ve had in the past few years. If you’ve received continuing education, be sure to include that information as well.
With a teaching position, you also want to update the courses you’ve taught if that had changed. For example, when applying for college teaching positions, a grad-level course is more valuable on your resume than a freshman undergrad course.
Updating Student Portfolio
A huge piece that goes with a teacher’s resume is the student portfolio. It could be as simple as a shared folder with images and written materials. Or, you could build a more comprehensive presentation deck.
On your resume, provide a clickable link directing the recruiter to that portfolio. Most schools use an online submission system nowadays. That means you can add interactive elements to your resume.
Write a Cover Letter
We’re almost ready!
Once you’re almost done with your resume, go back and select Cover Letter this time. A cover letter is often vital when applying for a teaching position.
In your cover letter, talk about your experience with teaching the age group, why you believe it’s important, and what you plan on bringing to the school and the class once hired.
Final Tips
Applying for a teacher’s position is much different from applying for any other regular job. Therefore, to make a resume for teacher, you must take a humanitarian approach.
Focus on the student’s achievements beyond your fundamental responsibilities as a teacher. Showcase how your teaching has created a difference in your student’s life and enriched the school’s culture.
Meanwhile, don’t forget to show the school that you’re also developing your professional career outside the classroom.
