JULIE GALLEGOS

juliegallegos@gmail.com  e-Portfolio: http://juliegallegos.com

Email me for letter with complete contact information

April 18, 2009

To Whom It May Concern:

Thank you for reviewing my letter and curriculum vitae. Please allow me to describe my teaching experiences
and qualifications, and how I could contribute to the success of your district.

I am a creative and enthusiastic educator with a passion for creating challenging and engaging learning
experiences for all students. Last year I taught English and English Language Development to middle school
students at Neil Armstrong Middle School in the Portland area. This gave me great opportunities in working
with diverse youth and families, collaborating with teachers and administrators, and designing curricula to
meet the unique needs of my struggling students. My time at Neil Armstrong was challenging but it was
rewarding. I worked to design lessons that would allow students to shine. Because I am fluent in Spanish, I
was able to make information accessible to my students and to connect with Spanish speaking families.

In my classes not only do I see the importance of teaching academic skills but also of creating a classroom in
which students learn about cooperation, multiculturalism, critical thinking, and community building. I want
students to see themselves and their lives reflected in the curriculum. In addition, I want to create appropriate
challenges in my classroom so that students must push themselves to learn and grow. In order to succeed in
this I believe that students must find joy in education. Through designing enriching activities and creating a
curriculum based on the interests of students I hope to build an environment in which students will enjoy
learning together.

In 2007 I earned my Single Subject Credential in English at Humboldt State University. This program
prepared me to be a skilled teacher in today’s multicultural and multilingual world. In August 2004 I received
a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s Studies with a minor in Ethnic Studies. My experience in these rigorous
programs makes me an excellent teacher of English language arts and English Language Development. In
addition, I have worked as a youth mentor through AmeriCorps, an Assistant Director for a YMCA camp for
inner-city girls, and as an instructor in Upward Bound and an outdoor school. These diverse experiences plus
my background in teaching give me the skills I need to excel as a teacher in your district.

I look forward to discussing this position and my qualifications with you. My teaching experience, education,
and background in working with youth would make me an excellent contribution to your staff and it would be
a privilege for me to join your team.

Sincerely,
Julie Gallegos