Dr.

Kristine Milburn Valley High School 3650 Woodland Ave West Des Moines, IA 50266 24 November 2013 Dear Administrator: I am writing this letter to recommend Pamela Walsh for employment as an English teacher within your district. I first met Pamela when she observed my teaching as a practicum student. Throughout the next two years, I also had the pleasure of watching Pamela in action as a substitute teacher in other classrooms and requested her as a substitute in my own classroom. When approached with the opportunity to host Pamela as a student teacher, I wholeheartedly accepted. Pamela consistently conveys motivation, aptitude, and maturity. I have served as an educator in Iowa for nineteen years; during the past fifteen years, I have taught English at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa. Pamela joined my classroom in mid-August, ready to step into the teaching role. She became engaged in teaching Early American Literature within the first week of class, preparing and executing lessons involving prose writers and poets across the Age of Reason, the Age of Romanticism (including The Scarlet Letter), and the Age of Realism (including The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn). As she developed relevant lessons, Pamela noted the variety of students in the classroom and differentiated according to students needs. She focused on high-interest activities, which capitalized on students strengths while encouraging them to explore the themes and practice strategies on their own. Pamela also promoted higher-level, critical thinking as she asked students to apply the themes and strategies to modern situations. Soon after engaging in Early American Literature, Pamela added Advanced Composition to her daily schedule, teaching scholarly writing, expository concepts, argumentation skills, and research skills. Advanced Composition is designed as a college preparatory class. In this class, students practice written language skills and continue to develop a personal writing voice. This class pushes students (and teachers) to refine rhetorical skills in preparation for success in college and beyond. Pamela tackled this challenging assignment as well, providing assistance and expertise in preparing students for the necessary outcome. Pamela practiced aligning curriculum with Common Core Standards as well as designing and scoring assessments that measure the standards. The students noted Pamelas willingness to learn and grow alongside them as she spent countless hours working with students collectively and individually in order to ensure comprehension, growth, and success. Pamela also collaborated with me in teaching AP Language and Composition/Composition I, a dual credit course. AP Language and Composition encourages students to analyze a variety of nonfiction genres and to continue practice in rhetorical skills. Pamela participated in and helped to facilitate discussionsa crucial skillranging from the art of writing and rhetoric to the exploration of gender relations and culture She also provided valuable feedback for student writing.

Pamelas devotion to teaching is noticed through her constant reflection and self-assessment and her willingness to adjust lessons as needed in order to best meet the needs of all students. Her quest to become an effective teacher has carried her beyond the classroom as well. Throughout the semester, Pamela has demonstrated her own interest in education issues beyond the classroom, attending required and optional meetings both during and after contract hours. Moreover, Pamela began her student teaching assignment 10 days before required, taking advantage of pre-service and in-service experiences. My colleagues and I have commended Pamela for her professionalism, her responsibility, and her dedication. In addition to her dedication to the classroom, Pamela sustains a disciplined lifestyle which values mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Pamela stays abreast of current events in order to help students make connections between classroom learning and real life. Throughout her student teaching placement, Pamela efficiently juggled home obligations, a weekend job, and teaching obligations. I've also noted the tremendous value Pamela places on family and friends. Her eyes truly light up when she speaks of the many wonderful ways her family has shaped her life. In addition, Pamela willingly lends her helping hand to friends and strangers, regardless of their needs. Above all, Pamelas smile and warm attitude contribute to her personal happiness and success in whatever she undertakes. In my observations, Pamela deeply values her integrity and humility. She consistently proves to be a worthy role model for todays youth. I am fully convinced that Pamelas personality, perseverance, and performance will be an asset to any school; and I look forward to her successful service as a teacher. Sincerely,

Kristine Milburn, EdD milburnk@wdmcs.org