4 December 2014

Tracy D. Sides
7273 Bantam Street
Las Vegas, NV 89131
Ph: 702-279-9114
tracyDsides@gmail.com
CCSD Human Resources:
I am inquiring about the availability of an Elementary Special Education Position position within the
Clark County Elementary School District. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in
Elementary Special Education from Nevada State College, I am excited about the opportunity to begin
my career in our school system. As a recent college graduate with extensive coursework in the Special
Education, coupled with solid work experiences in educational environments dealing with the a wide
range of learning abilities, I have quite a bit to offer.
As a substitute teacher within CCSD, I have been able to experience the variety of school environments
and diverse student populations throughout the valley. This aided me as a student teacher in a 4th grade
class at Kitty Ward Elementary School. I formed cooperative learning groups, organized individualized
projects, created learning centers, and implemented learning style research in every lesson in order to
reach a diverse classroom of learners. Alternative assessment methods, such as rubrics and performance
assessments, in combination with traditional tests enabled me to evaluate children individually and
comprehensively. Each of these lessons aligned seamlessly with Common Core Standards as they are
currently being implemented within CCSD. By incorporating real life examples to illustrate concepts
from each assignment, the students understanding improved, which was reflected in their grades.
One of the first things you will notice about my credentials is that they are not those of a traditional
college graduate. In fact, it has been a long road to get to this point. But the trip, with all its detours, has
been worth the effort. I love learning, and more importantly, I enjoy lighting the paths of individual
students on their way to metacognition and independence. Due to my own difficulties in my educational
career, I can relate to the frustrations many students experience. I understand the first-hand struggle to
get good grades. This gives me credibility with my students.
It is my opinion that, as teachers, we too are learners and can never stop pursuing new ways to build
students, particularly special needs students, interest in learning. I would appreciate the opportunity to
meet with you to discuss how my skills and experience can meet the needs of students in the Clark
County School District. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Tracy D. Sides