May 1, 2017

To Whom It May Concern:

I write to you to recommend David Han for a mathematics teaching position at your school. I
have known David for several years. I served as Davids professor in two courses as part of
Westmont Colleges Liberal Studies Major and 2016-17 Credential Cohort. This semester, David
has had a positive student teaching experience at Hope Elementary School in a sixth grade class
with cooperating teacher, Isao Sugano. He has completed all the requirements for a CA
Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential as of June 2017. In Summer 2017, David plans
to pursue added authorization for Single Subject Secondary Foundational Level Mathematics.

David is honest about his love for mathematics, yet he is also honest about struggling to learn
mathematics when he was younger. His courses at Westmont College, along with his student
teaching, have prepared him to persevere, embrace, and enjoy the challenge of learning and
teaching mathematics. While at Westmont, David has developed a strong foundation in the
Common Core, differentiated instruction, and SDAIE strategies. He has also successfully planned
and taught lessons using College Preparation Mathematics or CPM with his sixth graders this
semester. David recently shared with me that when he taught the area of a triangle, We used the
formula [1/2 x base x height]. Some teachers might want to teach a formula and have students
memorize it, but I want to teach students why we use that formula. If students know the area of a
rectangle, students can recognize and even use manipulatives to learn that a triangle is half of a
rectangle. Once students know that a triangle is half of a rectangle, then I can help them see why
we take 1/2 of the base and height to find the area of a triangle.

David cares deeply about helping students understand why there are certain steps in mathematics.
He hopes to build student confidence in mathematics wanting students to believe in their abilities,
so they are more willing to take risks and learn concepts. Additionally, David loves to incorporate
games and music in his lessons to create an environment that encourages a love for mathematics.

David is reflective and strives to be a life-long learner. He is eager to grow as a professional and
does not shy away from feedback. Davids energy and cheerful demeanor allow him to easily
connect with students. He is a team player ready to contribute to and embrace a school
community. I recommend David for a position at your school. He will make a positive impact on
students. If you have questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Michelle C. Hughes
Associate Professor of Education
Westmont College
805-895-2141 (cell)
mhughes@westmont.edu