March

3, 2015

RE: Kyle Zundel

To Whom It May Concern:

I am pleased to recommend Ms. Kyle Zundel for an English teaching position in your school district. As a
professor in the Brigham Young University English teaching program, I have had the opportunity to work with
and observe Ms. Zundel in a variety of circumstances; in every instance she demonstrates the qualities of a
dedicated learner, engaging teacher, and candidate worthy of hire.

My first interactions with Ms. Zundel occurred last fall as she began the English teaching program at Brigham
Young University. She demonstrated a sincere dedication to her education through her transactions with the
readings and course material. In discussions she demonstrated the unique ability to help other students
question their own assumptions in ways that didnt offend, yet ultimately proved transformative for all learners
in our class. In addition, her written work demonstrated thoughtfulness through her ability to interrogate issues
while also finding application of theories to classroom practice. These qualities reflect her devotion to her own
education as well as her commitment to perpetuating authentic learning in her own future classroom.

Last fall I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Zundel in her capstone methods course where I observed
recordings of her teaching and reviewed numerous lesson plans she designed. These assessments of her work
and observations of her interactions with students in the classroom demonstrate her potential as a future
teacher. In each field experience assignment she takes full advantage of opportunities to interact with students
and support the work of the teachers. The teachers who have worked with her compliment her potential and
ability to succeed in the profession. She engages naturally with students from all backgrounds and ability levels,
making them feel welcome and at ease. Specifically, they note her ability to assess student understanding during
a lesson and then adapt her teaching when students are overwhelmed. These teachers also note her willingness
to receive feedback to improve her teaching, an attribute that I have noticed as well. This humility, combined
with her enthusiasm, warm nature and energy, make her the kind of teacher worth hiring.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Zundel has held a variety of jobs and participated in community service that will
help her succeed in her future profession as a teacher. Through her work as an office specialist, she has
developed her skills with technology and social media in order to promote student wellness events. During the
time she worked as an event coordinator, she developed both organizational and interpersonal communication
skills as she helped run events and work with those in attendance. Both of these work experiences helped her
develop the kinds of skills required of teachers as they contribute to the school community in assemblies and
student events and outside of the classroom. In this way Ms. Zundel also demonstrates the practical skills
necessary to succeed as a teacher.

Ms. Zundels past achievements suggest her potential for success as she continues to pursue the educational and
professional goals. Her dedication to her own education and her work thus far in the classroom demonstrate
her willingness and ability to do what needs to be done to make a difference in the lives of her future students.

Sincerely,

Dawan L Coombs, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of English