December 2018

Dear School Leaders,

I believe education has the potential to create social change. I believe education can change an
individual’s life, give them opportunities otherwise not available, and shape society’s future for the better. As a
teacher, I implement these beliefs in my daily practice in the classroom. My mission is to inspire students to
recognize their strengths, grow from their weaknesses, and find their passion to make a positive impact in the
world. Goochland County Public Schools is an excellent place to begin my career as an educator and be part of
creating social change.
Over the course of my teacher education program at the University of Virginia, I have had a variety of
experiences in diverse school settings. I worked in two different rural schools in second grade classrooms. I also
worked in an urban and a rural fifth grade classroom. This range of experience has taught me to consider the
needs of the local community.
During my undergraduate work at Virginia Tech, I had the opportunity to study and work abroad
teaching primary students English and computer skills in Rwanda. The experience challenged me in entirely
new ways; requiring flexibility, patience, compassion, and empathy. Studying and working abroad opened my
eyes to a greater worldview that offered culturally sensitive communication skills and acceptance of values
different from my own. My experiences in U.S. classrooms and teaching in Rwanda have prepared me to enter
the profession as an educator.
I am currently completing my student teaching internship experience at Goochland Elementary School
in a fifth-grade inclusion classroom. The experience in an inclusion classroom has taught me to develop
differentiated instruction while simultaneously creating a collaborative learning environment in which students
support each other’s learning. Our classroom has focused on embodying and explicitly teaching students growth
mindset and metacognitive skills to be active problem solvers. I’ve learned to create engaging and meaningful
learning experiences for my students. I am impressed with the technology and equity initiatives of the division.
My mentor teacher has taught me how to innovatively use technology to promote deeper learning. I believe
Goochland County Public Schools offers a great environment for new teachers to grow and reach their full
potential.
My ultimate goal is to be an elementary general educator. In my first three years as a new teacher, I plan
to focus on developing and honing my skills in differentiated instruction, classroom management, and
technology integration. I invite you to view my application as well as my digital portfolio for a reflection of my
practice, exemplar lesson plans, teaching artifacts, and much more. My resume, which further details my
experiences and qualifications, is attached. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. I look forward
to hearing from you regarding the teaching positions available in Goochland.

Sincerely,
Mary Frances Roll

Mbr7ay@virginia.edu