how to write an application letter to private school

11 Parent Statement Tips for Private School Applications

Private schools aim to collect as much information from different sources about prospective students as possible during the application process. The perspective provided by parents and guardians is highly valued because no one knows your child better than you.

The real question is, how do you provide insight on an application form that helps schools see your child’s unique qualities?

Let’s review guidelines for the types of questions you’re likely to encounter below. The exact questions will vary from school to school, so the crucial takeaway when writing parent statements is to use examples and stories . For example, show how your child is creative, resilient, or empathetic through specific anecdotes instead of statements.

{{step1="/fs-components"}}

<span class="text-color-orange" role="decoration">General Parent Statements</span> 

Many applications include a prompt similar to this: "A parent/guardian's perspective on your child's strengths and weaknesses is valuable. Please write a statement of recommendation for your child." When responding, keep the following guidelines in mind.

• One paragraph should review how your child is "smart," but don’t discuss grades or test scores here. Instead, focus on how your child is academically engaged and intellectually curious. Use stories and anecdotes to add depth. 
• Another paragraph, describe your child's character and personality. Don’t list adjectives here. Rather, use stories to bring your child to life on the page. 
• Finally, it's important to cover any challenges your child has faced and, most importantly, how they have overcome these challenges. Most schools ask about challenges and they can be wary if parents don't mention any.
• Avoid using too many words. Edit down your first draft so that the main statement is no more than three to five sentences per paragraph, and make sure to heed suggested word counts requested by the schools. Admissions teams have a lot of files to read, and if your essay is too long, you risk them skimming it and missing out on your key points.

{{step2="/fs-components"}}

<span class="text-color-lightblue" role="decoration">School-Specific Questions </span>  

"Why are you applying to [our] school?" is another common question. These tips will help your answer stand out.

• Take notes on what the school says about themselves during open houses, visits, tours, etc. What is their mission statement? What are their stated values? Keep these notes handy as you eloquently match the school to your child and family. Again, use examples that really stick. 
• If you’ve visited the school or attended an open house, draw on SPECIFIC examples from your experience. Make sure your response is UNIQUE to your family and student. Don't list adjectives about the school. Tell a story or give an example about why you think your student would thrive in their environment. Is it the school's philosophy or the art program? The experiential learning component? Make sure to match this element to your child. 
• Review all answers before submitting the application to make sure you have the correct name of each school. It’s a common mistake for parents to cut and paste the wrong school name—and that’s never a good typo! 

{{step3="/fs-components"}}

<span class="text-color-green" role="decoration">“Is there any further information?” </span>  

Given that applications have a limited number of questions for parents, each with word counts, this one provides valuable “real estate” to illustrate who your child is and something unique they would bring to the school. Here are some ways to take advantage of this opportunity that most parents skip. 

• This space can be used to tell the school about a learning difference that you think is relevant. If you think this will show up in your child’s record, it is a good idea to show that you know what is hard for your child and how you have partnered with the current school to help them succeed. 
• You could also use this section to describe the student’s diverse background of any kind. Schools are looking to create the most textured class possible. What will your child bring that is unique? 
• This question could be a space to tell a story that illustrates a difficult moment for your family and how your child coped. Habits of heart and mind are becoming more important for schools; they’re often screening for qualities like resilience. 
• Overall, you can discuss anything that wasn’t covered in the other parts of the application here. The information in this section should be relevant to understanding the student holistically and help the reader make sense of any apparent “holes” in the application. Keep in mind that this is not necessarily a place to list accolades or accomplishments. 

{{step4="/fs-components"}}

<span class="text-color-orange" role="decoration">Thank You Notes </span>   

It’s always a good idea to send a thank you to the admission office or interviewer after a meeting or event. An email is fine, and in some ways, it’s easier since so many schools have paperless files. When you do this, think about the guidelines above and use this opportunity to match your unique child and family to the unique school!

Jamie Moffett is the founder of Walking Feet Advisors , an advising practice for families applying to independent schools. She previously served as the director of admission K–8 at Marin Country Day School in Corte Madera, Calif., where she worked for the last eighteen years.

First-Choice Letters: Do they Help or Hurt Admission?

29 parent interview questions to better evaluate private schools, 5 ways parents can navigate the boarding school boom, the final countdown to application deadlines, 9 essential private school application deadline tips.

Let’s get going!

Save time applying to private schools with the Standard Application Online. Apply to any of over 400 participating schools with one set of documentation and a single student essay.

The Official SSAT Practice

The path to bright SSAT results starts with studying. Only EMA's official  Online Practice  and  Guide Books  feature  four full-length tests with 600 questions  created by the same people who develop the SSAT. Compared to the competition, it's no competition—you get more and pay less with our official study guides! Get started today with the  free online Mini-Practice Test  to identify focus areas.

Find a school that’s unbe-leaf-able!

Whatever type of private school you're looking for, we've got it. Day schools. Boarding schools. Schools that dance. Schools that play. Schools that pray. Use our Private School Search to discover the schools that will help your child hone their strengths and discover hidden talents. Where will they blossom?

Admission Concierge at Your Service

Grow your understanding of the private school application process with Admission Concierge, a free newsletter delivering timely reminders and advice throughout the application process. It's everything you need to know—precisely when you need to know it.

Stand Out With the Snapshot

The Character Skills Snapshot is an innovative measure of student preferences, attitudes, and beliefs, helping schools get to know who an applicant is rather than just what they know from grades and standardized tests—letting their uniqueness shine. Add the Snapshot to your student's application today to help them stand out.

Sample Parent Statement for Private School Admissions

We love sharing practical tips about crafting parent statements on the Admit NY blog - check out our five top tips for writing parent statements here , and our expanded guide to parent statement structure here . 

Sometimes, though, the most helpful way for parents to conceptualize their parent statement is to read a sample. Look no further! Here’s a great sample parent statement that addresses all of the key points that private school admissions officers are looking for.  

Note that this is a fictional parent statement describing a fictional student. 

Sample Parent Statement for High School Applicants

Prompt: please tell us about your child and why you believe [school] would be a good fit for him/her..

Morgan’s most defining quality is that he does not do anything halfway. This has been the case ever since he was a young child: if he started a complicated LEGO set or a science fiction book, he just had to get it done and wouldn’t rest until he did. Morgan lives for the genuine sense of accomplishment that comes along with a job well done, and that commitment carries through his personal life and his life as a student. Morgan is committed to being there for his friends through thick and thin, and is frequently the first one to call or visit a friend when they’re having a difficult day. At school and in extracurriculars, Morgan dives wholeheartedly, and usually with a smile on his face, into each project he takes on and won’t give up until he achieves the result he’s looking for. 

Morgan’s commitment to participating fully in each area of his life, and achieving his goals, was gravely tested during the last year and a half of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like all of us, Morgan struggled for a beat in the early weeks of the pandemic with the sudden distance from his friends and shift to remote learning. But Morgan was quickly back in the saddle, strategizing how to continue doing his best given the changing circumstances. Morgan took the lead on organizing weekly friend hangout sessions with several of his classmates, and the group steadily expanded to reach almost 20 students connecting on Zoom for upwards of two hours each Thursday evening. While many other students resigned themselves to severely limited academic progress in the spring of 2020, Morgan wouldn’t accept it. He emailed his teachers and met with them virtually to plan the best way to maintain his progress toward the goals he’d set at the beginning of the semester. Throughout it all, Morgan was upbeat, sunny, and focused on making the most out of a difficult situation. We were incredibly proud of the way his core commitment to living life to its fullest shone through even in the world’s darkest moments. 

The academic pursuits that Morgan was particularly passionate about keeping up during the pandemic were his math and science classes. Morgan is deeply invested in STEM, and has a natural aptitude for numbers and scientific thinking. Math, particularly algebra, is very satisfying to Morgan; it might be because the sense of accomplishment that comes along with solving a difficult algebra formula mirrors that sense of accomplishment Morgan enjoys when he brings any sort of project to completion. 

While math and science are Morgan’s favorite subjects, he is a well-rounded student with strong skills in English. Morgan has been a voracious reader since first grade, and it was difficult to provide a steady enough stream of books during the pandemic to satisfy his increased capacity for reading. (Once again, the satisfaction of turning the last page on a long, fascinating book is one of Morgan’s sincere joys.) One of the creative ways that Morgan brought his friends together during quarantine was a monthly book club. While the students were already reading a couple of classic novels in their English class, they decided that they wanted to venture into science fiction reading as well. Morgan and one of his best friends researched a variety of sci-fi novels, organized them into a selection for each month, and led a monthly book club meeting to discuss their favorite parts. We eavesdropped a little on one of these meetings and heard the boys enthusiastically debating which would be “cooler,” settling on the moon or on Mars, based on a storyline in their most recent novel. 

Outside of school and his monthly book club, Morgan is committed to athletics. In his first weeks of middle school, Morgan decided that he wanted to join the cross country team. Morgan had never been seriously involved in sports before, and frankly we (his parents) are not particularly athletic! But a few of Morgan’s friends loved their sports teams, and Morgan was interested in trying something new. So, he began attending cross country practice after school almost every weekday. At first, Morgan didn’t really like running. He was struggling to get through the team’s longer runs, and doing anything halfway is not Morgan’s favorite thing. Progress seemed far off, and we thought that Morgan would ultimately quit cross country. But all of the sudden, Morgan started seeing improvement. In true Morgan fashion, he took the initiative to pick out a running book from the library and read it in three days flat, immediately implementing some improvements to his running stride. Within two months, Morgan was able to finish longer runs, and started inching up the leaderboard at team meets. These days, Morgan is a casual but enthusiastic runner. He knows that he isn’t destined to be the fastest athlete on the team, but he finds real fulfilment in constantly seeking to beat his personal record. After finishing a particularly fast run along the West Side Highway with a friend last week, Morgan got home sweaty, panting, and smiling, and said “I think I’m finally getting the hang of this!”

As Morgan approaches the search for a high school, he is as committed as ever to participating fully in the process and not doing anything halfway. He hopes to join a community of similar students, who are ambitious, kind, passionate learners, and interested in a diverse variety of subjects and activities. Morgan has always enjoyed building relationships with his teachers so we are also seeking a school where teachers are approachable and accessible. Morgan also appreciates an environment where he and his peers are encouraged to take initiative and craft their own projects. For all of these reasons (and many more), we believe that [SCHOOL] would be a great fit for Morgan. With a close-knit and engaged student body that participates in a wide variety of classes and clubs, Morgan would have no problem finding STEM friends, running friends, and reading friends. He would love [SCHOOL]’s independent study program; developing an innovative project idea, recruiting friends to join him, and executing the project all the way through completion are all Morgan’s unique strengths. We feel confident that if Morgan attended [SCHOOL], he would graduate with a broad portfolio of successes that reflect the school’s commitment to helping every student harness their passion, and Morgan’s commitment to doing his very best. 

You May Also Like

Why Should You Get Ready for Admissions in the Spring?

What to Expect from a Nursery School Play Visit

What to Expect When You Hear Back From Schools

3 Tips for Writing Your Child's Private School Application Essay

How to harness the power of storytelling.

By Soojung Smith

Published on: october 30, 2017.

It’s that time of year again: the busy admissions season for private and independent K–12 schools. Keeping track of each school's open houses, campus tours, parent and student interview dates and test requirements can feel like a full-time job. 

Each year, more families are considering private schools for their children and competition for top private schools in the greater Seattle area has become increasingly fierce. Some elite private schools admit fewer than 10 percent of their applicants from a highly qualified candidate pool. High standardized test (SSAT and ISEE) scores and GPAs alone, unfortunately, don’t guarantee a spot at these coveted schools. They're interested in forming a diverse and well-rounded student body that delves beyond students’ test scores and grades.

Some elite private schools admit fewer than 10 percent of their applicants.

One of the biggest mistakes I've seen families make in preparing their child’s applications for admission is to treat the information they submit as separate data points. Rather than painting a complete picture of their student, parent and student essays often read like a student activity form.

To give your child the best chance of success, it's important to be intentional and thoughtful about your child’s application. Remember that admission committees are interested in learning about your child and what your family can offer, and how you will contribute to their schools and school communities.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your child's private school application.

Know what it is you want to say about your child and your family: What are the key messages you want to convey?  

• Think about how you and others see your child. You as parents? Grandparents? Their siblings? How would their friends describe them? Teachers? Neighbors?
• What keywords begin to emerge? Kind? Mature? Creative? Curious? Inventive? A maker? A leader?
• Choose three to five themes that best capture core identities of your child.
• Use your child’s essential qualities, be it their achievements, unique experiences, activities or interests to make the connection to these themes.
• Once themes emerge, look broadly and creatively at parent and student essays, activity profile, teacher recommendations, and other application elements for opportunities to weave these ideas together for differentiation.

Start working on essays and other application elements

• Typically, families apply for three to five schools and, depending upon schools under consideration, you may end up with writing not only a common set of essays but also other unique ones they require from applicants and their families.
• These requirements all add up, expecting a significant amount of time and efforts on your and your child’s end. Good writing is a process; it doesn’t happen overnight. Be prepared to go through three rounds of drafts of parent and student essays to get to final “quality” ones you and your student feel proud of. Try to have solid first drafts by the end of October, the second one by the end of November and the final draft by the end of December.   
• Make sure you write parent essays while your child writes their student essays. You can lend help to your child, but they need to provide original and thoughtful answers in their portion of the applications as well as during interviews. Schools can tell if a parent writes student essays and even go so far as to collect writing samples.

Use essays and other application elements for effective storytelling

• Use a parent statement, student essays and an extracurricular activity profile to let the reader in: Who is your child? What do they care most? Who is their hero? Why? How do these insights connect with other information you are submitting about your child and your family? Is there a particular story(ies) that helps to describe your child and your family best?
• Distill the story that defines your child and your family in the space provided in online applications before the deadline for completed applications. Each essay question has a specific word count you can’t exceed, so be mindful of how you will use precious real estate to convey main messages for differentiation.

Effective storytelling alone won’t necessarily put your child over the top if they aren't already a competitive candidate. But it goes hand-in-hand with solid standardized test scores and GPAs for robust applications. Let schools know how unique your child and your family are. Let them know how your child and family will contribute to a diverse student body. Good luck!

STAY CONNECTED! Get the best of ParentMap delivered right to your inbox.

Related Topics

• Private School

Share this resource with your friends!

About the author.

Soojung Smith is a family education coach, author, CEO and board advisor, and former Microsoft marketing executive. Her children attend two private schools on the Eastside. Soojung supports parents with challenging issues such as private school vs. public school, private school admissions, and students’ executive functioning skills and their public speaking competencies. Email Soojung at  [email protected] .

Your Child’s First Job Might Not Exist Yet

In a STEM Obsessed World, I'm Proud of My Arts Major

Authentic Learning Keeps Kids Curious

You might also like.

Camps + Classes

Kid-centered camps inspire lifelong learning.

Seattle Preschool Program Applications are Open

High School

Teens take action ‘from waste to wonder’.

Super Seattle-Area Spring Break Camps for 2024

How to Write the Parent Statement for Private School

Three things you need to know

Adrian Samson / Getty Images

• For Parents & Educators
• Choosing a Private School
• Homework Help
• College Admissions
• College Life
• Graduate School
• Business School
• Distance Learning
• Psy.D., Organizational Psychology, Rutgers University - New Brunswick
• B.A., History and Literature, Harvard University

Most applications to private schools require parents to write about their children in a parent’s statement or by filling out a questionnaire. The purpose of the parent's letter is to add dimension to the candidate’s statement and help the admissions committee better understand the applicant from the parent’s perspective.

Parent statement is your chance to provide a personal introduction to your child and share details about how your child learns as well as what their interests and strengths are. The following are a few simple steps that will help you write an effective parent letter.

Think About Your Responses

It can be difficult to step back and consider your child objectively, but you need to do exactly that. Think about what your child’s teachers have said over time, particularly the ones who know them well.

Reread report cards and teacher comments. Think about consistent themes that emerge from the reports. Are there comments that teachers have consistently made about how your child learns and acts in school and in extracurricular activities? These comments will be helpful for the admissions committee. 

Consider also your own observations of your child as well as what you hope your child will get out of their private school experience.

Real children aren’t perfect, but they can still be great candidates to private schools. Describe your child accurately and openly. A full, real, and descriptive parent’s statement will show the admissions committee that you are being honest, and when they will read about the amazing sides of your child, they will be more likely to believe them.

If your child has had serious disciplinary actions or other issues in the past, describe them. Let the admissions officers know what happened and draw positive lessons from it. The school is looking for a real kid—not a perfect pupil.

Showing that your child and your family are capable of dealing with setbacks might be even more valuable than presenting a flawless picture. Of course, describe your child’s strengths and don't only feel the need to be negative—but everything you write should be truthful.

Also, helping the committee members understand your child with their strengths and challenges will help them make the best decision for everyone. Your child will be most successful if they attend the school that fits them best , and describing your child candidly will help the admissions committee decide if the school and your child are the best fit for one another. Children who succeed at their schools are happier and healthier and stand in better stead for college admissions.

Consider How Your Child Learns

The parent’s statement is a chance to describe how your child learns so that the admissions committee can decide if they are likely to benefit from being at the school. If your child has moderate to severe learning issues, reveal them. Many private schools grant students with learning issues  accommodations or changes in the curriculum, so that they can best demonstrate what they know.

Students with mild learning issues might be able to wait until they are admitted to the school to ask about the school’s accommodations policy, but students with more severe learning issues should ask about the school’s policies about helping them beforehand. You may also have to do some research into what kind of resources the school offers to help your child—before they attend the school. Being open and honest with the school will help you and your child find the school where they can be happy and successful.

How to Organize Your Letter

Parent statements for private schools are typically composed of three parts: description of your child, description of your family, and the alignment of your values with the school values. The first two or even all three may be blended together, as through descriptions of your child, the nature of your family and your values will come through.

Sometimes, school websites offer useful prompts to guide your letters, and if that is the case, you should definitely make use of them. Some of the frequent questions are:

• What do you hope for your child to accomplish with the help of our school?
• Has your child ever had any intellectual, emotional, or behavioral evaluations? If so, describe their contexts and results.
• In what situations does your child thrive? Describe your child as an individual, with their hopes, values, goals, aspirations, strengths, and weaknesses.
• Has your child been through any adversity? Describe the context and how they navigated it.
• What has your role been in your child's education?
• Does your child require any academic or other support or accommodations?

Ideally, your letter would respond to these questions as thoroughly, yet as succinctly as possible.

The simplest way to go about this is to choose three to five aspects of your child's personality that you would like to highlight and compose the statement around them. Include illustrative anecdotes that will also portray a little about your family life. If it comes naturally to you, feel free to make these funny or quirky, as you are ultimately trying to stand out from the rest of the applicants.

As mentioned, you should also make a point of familiarizing yourself with the school's values and objectives and show in your letter how connected these are to your family. The more natural this is the better. All in all, as long as you provide the admission officers with an honest snapshot of your family and your child's nature and potential, your letter will hold its ground.

Article edited by  Stacy Jagodowski

• 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to Private School
• What Do Private School Admissions Committees Look For?
• Choosing the Best School for Your Child
• How to Fill Out the Standard Application to Private School
• Interview Questions for Private School Admissions
• Private School Admissions Guide
• How to Prepare for Private School Interviews
• 5 Common Private School Interview Questions
• Private School Application Essay Tips
• The Private School Waitlist: What to Do Now
• UC Personal Statement Prompt #1
• Reasons Why You Should Consider Private School
• Private School Teaching Job Search Tips
• Is Private School Worth the Money?
• How Do Private Schools Determine Aid?
• 5 Things to Avoid at the Admission Interview

Personal Statements

Get the personal statement help you need to stand out from the rest.

CONTACT US TODAY

A personal statement is an essay that an applicant has to write when applying for private schools. There are prompts or questions that have to be answered within the specified word count. This is an opportunity for students to let admissions officers know more about them and demonstrate how they could be a good fit for the school. However, many students fail to achieve this goal because they are not able to write a good narrative that makes them stand out from the other applicants. 

Along with good grades, impressive test scores, and letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement can make a big difference in private school admissions. Our educational consultants understand how the admissions process works for top-tier schools and what admissions officers are looking for. This guide will help keep your child from making common mistakes when writing personal statements and admissions essays.

• Be authentic and honest. Let your answers give admissions officers a glimpse into your personality and how you can be an asset to the school.
• Avoid generalizations. Be definite with your answers. Tell them why you are applying to a particular program and why you think you will be a good fit.
• Use specific examples to support your statements. Your personal experiences will be the best stories you can share that will prove how compatible you are.
• Avoid using cliches. Be creative in your narrative. Your goal is to engage the admissions officer to keep on reading until the end of your essay or personal statement. 

At Cardinal Education, our holistic approach to admissions lets us unravel your child’s potential and highlight their uniqueness to get the differentiation they need. Over the years, we have developed our own formula and strategies for writing admissions essays and personal statements that have helped numerous families get into the best schools.

For students who are not strong writers, we advise them to enroll in our Program in Writing and Reading . This program aims to make them active and curious readers to develop comprehension and widen their vocabulary and ultimately, unlock their writing ability. We teach them the fundamentals of writing so they can organize their thoughts and ideas and express them in writing.   

What should I include in a personal statement?

A personal statement should demonstrate a student’s passions and interests which are unique. Remember that what we are aiming for is differentiation so think about your child’s activities that are not common among other students. If your child is into painting, consider what makes the artwork unique and how it is being used to drive change in the community or inspire others.  

How long should a personal statement be?

Each school will have its own requirements but typically, student statements are 1000 to 3000 characters long or approximately 250 to 500 words. Admissions officers go through hundreds of personal statement essays so it is important to keep to the maximum requirement and make sure that the first statement piques their curiosity to continue reading until the last sentence. 

How do I write a personal statement?

When writing a personal statement, focus on the question and only write relevant responses. It is very easy to get carried away and veer off course but with the limited word count, your child might not be able to express the most ideas important ideas that admissions officers are interested in.  

Do I need personal statement help?

Yes, especially if you and your child are not very strong writers. Among all the other application requirements, the personal statement is one of the biggest factors that affect admission decisions so it must be written well enough that it creates impact and sticks to the minds of the admissions officers.  Contact us to learn more about our writing program. 

What grade level is your child in? Elementary School Level Middle School Level High School Level

What services are you looking for? Private School Admissions College Admissions Standardized Test Prep Subject Tutoring

How did you hear about us? A Referral Google Search

Please leave this field empty.

Tel: (888) 521-5243

Email: [email protected]

• Our Mission
• College Admissions
• Private School Admissions
• Private School Test Prep
• College Test Prep
• Online Tutoring
• History Tutoring
• Science Tutoring
• Math Tutoring
• Language Tutoring
• Competition Math
• Program in Writing and Reading (PWR)
• Academic Coaching
• Executive Function
• Learning Differences
• Acceptances
• Testimonials
• Case Studies
• Useful Links
• Recommended Reading
• Partner with CE
• What makes us special?
• Our History
• Open Positions
• Accommodations Information
• Admissions Process
• Test Logistics

OUR OFFICES

Burlingame office.

100 El Camino Real, Suite 101 Burlingame, CA 94010 (888) 521-5243 [email protected]

Woodside Office

2920 Woodside Rd, Suite D Woodside, CA 94062 (888) 521-5243 [email protected]

Beverly Hills, LA Office

9350 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 203 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 (310) 904-6055 [email protected]

Bellevue, WA Office

1239 120th Ave NE, Suite A Bellevue, WA 98005 (425) 785-7688 [email protected]

Add Project Key Words

Parent Statements For Private High School Admissions

Christopher Coleman

December 2, 2020

When writing Parent Statements for private high school admissions, you must remember : you’re not writing your child’s resumé. For the purposes of this article, pretend that you are no longer a parent of a boarding school applicant. Instead, you are a boarding school admissions officer. Your job is to review applications and identify the applicants that are the best fit for your school from a large applicant pool. As a boarding school admission officer, you will read each page of every single admission application, which is standard operating procedure. 

In reviewing admission applications, you will read Parent Statements for private high school admissions . They will, hopefully, provide you with further information about the applicant. See, teacher recommendations primarily describe an applicant from an academic perspective. Transcripts will paint the picture of how much care the applicant puts into his or her studies. An activity list will explain how the applicant spends time outside of the classroom. What completes the applicant’s profile is information about them from the parents’ perspective, a unique vantage point that can provide very important information…or not.

As an admissions officer, Parent Statements can influence you in one of three ways: excite you, frustrate or bore you, or make little impression on you at all. 

What Should Entail Parent Statements for Private High School Admissions?

For whatever it’s worth, I am the parent of a child who is both a boarding school graduate and a college graduate. I have experienced both sides of the admission process, so I know the position in which you are in currently. 

Now, you might be thinking, “How can Parent Statements be anything but helpful and wonderful as they are written by kind, caring, and loving parents who only seek to support their children’s candidacies, Christopher?” In composing Parent Statements for private high school admissions , the writers  are only being, well, parents. More often than not, though, a parent’s point of view might come off as too promotional or lacking in objective insights. Translation: parents embody the statement made famous by Malcom X in that they wish to help their children gain admission to a school “by any means necessary,” touting their child as the second coming of Marie Curie, Serena Williams, or Stephen King. In reality, even though they are written with good intentions, these types of Parent Statements hurt their child’s application the most.

Let’s be honest. Parent Statements rarely make or break the success or failure of an admission application. Only in very rare cases has an applicant been accepted or denied admission solely based on the weight of a Parent Statement. So, it is best for parents to provide honest and objective information that will determine what kind of impact your child could make if he or she were to join that school’s community. 

Examples of Parent Statements

With that said, we’ll use the prompt and Parent Statement copied below as a sample for what ingredients should go into successful Parent Statements for private high school admissions .

Prompt: Please share with us the values you've instilled in your child and how our community might benefit from those values/lessons.

Response: We’ve taught our son Jimmy the value of volunteering and that not only does it benefit others, but that volunteering can also be a benefit to himself. Following our suggestion, Jimmy chose to volunteer on Saturdays at our neighborhood’s community center. He tutors younger kids in math and science. While the community center director has explained to my husband and me that Jimmy seems to be in a “happy place” whenever he tutors. The director also pointed out that Jimmy has a lot of fun interacting with the other children. My husband and I also noticed an increase in Jimmy’s grades since he started volunteering. You know what they say, the best way to learn is to teach.

Even more, Jimmy has also found that helping others is a practical way to further his own interests. During summer break, Jimmy loves to go fishing, but knows that he cannot go to the lake behind our house without being accompanied by an adult. My husband and I work during the day Monday through Friday and have lots of chores and errands on the weekends. So in previous summers, we have not had much time to take Jimmy fishing. To solve this issue, Jimmy taught his grandmother how to fish and goes fishing with her almost every day!

Experiencing firsthand the benefits of helping out others has made a positive impact on Jimmy’s life. My husband and I believe that as a student at your school, Jimmy would be likely to join or supervise a community service project or choose to become a peer tutor.  

Assessing the Example

Using the above example, here is how you, as an admission officer, should assess it:

• Clean writing. There are no spelling or grammar errors and the sentences should flow together. You should expect to compose several drafts for each of your Parent Statements. Take the time in between each draft so that you read each draft with a fresh perspective. 
• Answer the prompt. In directly answering the prompt, the Parent Statement provided a load of information about Jimmy. It pays for parents to brainstorm their child’s positive personality traits prior to responding to each prompt. These descriptors can act as a guide and give direction to the answer.
• No GPAs or academic accolades were found in this response.   I understand being proud of a child’s academic performance as a parent. However, the admissions officer will gain an understanding of that through academic transcripts and recommendations. Your job is to give further perspective on your child. Jimmy’s grades improved as a result of his behavior, but the grades themselves were not included.
• Tell a story…but not a novel. First and foremost, everyone likes a good story. Why do you think we watch movies and read books? The above example provides insight into Jimmy’s personality and his character. His academics have improved since becoming a tutor. He derives joy from helping and interacting with other children. He likes to fish. His family has set rules that Jimmy follows. One also learns that Jimmy is a problem-solver and has a positive relationship with family members from older generations. Lastly, by teaching his grandmother to fish, he now can participate in an activity he enjoys. The implication in all of this is that, if accepted, these are the qualities that Jimmy has to offer any school.
• Parent Statements do not have to be as dry as legal documents or tax forms or be as tedious to read as assembly directions for an Ikea dresser. Adding interesting details or humor to a Parent Statement will benefit its readability.
• Imagine a stack of Parent Statements stretching from your living room’s floor to its ceiling. As you are still reading this article, you are still an admissions officer. If your school requires each applicant’s parents to write five Parent Statements and during the course of an admission cycle you need to read 853 or more admission applications, you might just end up reading thousands of Parent Statements. From that perspective, you become quite eager to read Parent Statements that neither bore you, are majorly hyperbolic nor leave you with little to no insights into the applicant.

I hope that this blog has provided you with the basics towards building great Parents Statements for private high school admissions . When writing them, remember to think like an admission officer and not as a parent. If you were reviewing an admission application, what kind of Parent Statements would you find enjoyable to read and most insightful into an applicant’s personality? Did the Parent Statement you wrote meet those two criteria?

My best advice to you: Parent Statements are only meant to tell the parents’ side of a child’s story, not all of it. Put the care and attention into telling your side of your child’s story and do it well, leaving a positive impression.

Tags : private high school admissions , parent essays , how to write parent essays , Parent Statements for private high school admissions , boarding school admissions

Schedule a free consultation

to find out how we can help you get accepted.

• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Apply to Private High Schools

Last Updated: March 12, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Felipe Corredor . Felipe is a Senior College Admissions Consultant at American College Counselors with over seven years of experience. He specializes in helping clients from all around the world gain admission into America's top universities through private, one-on-one consulting. He helps guide clients through the entire college admissions process and perfect every aspect of their college applications. Felipe earned a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Chicago and recently received his MBA. This article has been viewed 1,955 times.

If you're in a private middle school currently, there is a fair chance you're thinking of attending a private high school. Most of your friends in your private middle school will likely be attending a private high school. This is even more true for the people who have attended private schools since elementary school. Unlike a public high school, where you don't have to do anything special to get in, private high schools in the U.S. require more effort to be accepted. You'll likely need to submit recommendation letters from some of your teachers, as well as an essay and an excellent report card. This article will explore the application process and help you prepare for applying at a private high school.

Increasing Your Chances of Getting into a Private High School

• To strengthen your application, focus on your grades in school.
• Study for tests as usual, take excellent notes, pay attention in class, participate by raising your hand, and follow the rules.
• Earn at least an 85% or above on most assignments, projects, and tests. One 70% or C is alright, although you should try to keep your grades up as much as possible.
• If you need help, you should ask for it. If you understand everything, you will know how to answer questions on tests, leading to a nice grade book. If you do not understand a concept, always ask a teacher during class or during office hours.

• Focus on extracurricular activities.
• Some schools allow 8th graders to mentor younger middle school students (in academics or in clubs). You could help teach/mentor the 7th, 6th, (and sometimes 5th) graders in your middle school for one example of a contribution to your school.
• Of course, if you are already very busy, you do not need to overexert yourself and attend extra clubs and activities.

• Do not talk during class (especially if you're the oldest in your school or if you're on the student council, as you want to be a role model), tell offensive "jokes", do random things unrelated to class in class, bully other students, zone out too often, or arrive late at school.
• You can do extra by participating in class often and helping other students out! This makes your recommendation letters stand out from the rest and will increase your chances of attending the private high school of your dreams.

Applying to Private High Schools

• If your older sibling has gone to college, they may not have that much time to answer your concerns and questions about going to high school. Schedule a call when you can (around the weekends is best) and use that call for your sibling to answer your questions about applying to private high schools.

• They may have applied for private high schools themselves, so you can ask them a few questions and concerns you have.

• Is it a religious high school?
• Are uniforms required?
• How many modes of transportation to and from the school are there? (e.g. by school bus, by car, on foot, on bike)
• How many language AP courses are offered?
• What is the curriculum taught for mathematics?
• What colleges do graduates from this school get accepted to?
• How many clubs are there?
• Does the school offer a variety of sports? (e.g. football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, track-and-field, swimming, competitive dance)

• During the open house, grab some food! Some schools may offer the most delicious cookies, whereas some may offer fruit and other drinks. Food is usually offered at open houses of schools.
• If you are accepted to a school you've toured before, it will be harder to get lost on the first day, since you've seen an overall outline of the school.

• Make sure to email the teachers whose classes you'll be missing before the shadow day!
• Shadowing lets you actually experience what the teachers and students are like. You can usually take to the students with any questions or concerns about the school. There may be one student taking you to a variety of different classes, or you could be allowed to "roam around" the campus, exploring the different classes, lunchtime environment, and clubs.

• At the very least, private high schools will want you to get recommendation letters from your math and language arts teachers. "Extra" recommendation letters are not needed, so you don't need to ask for one from your science, history, or other subjects' teachers.

• You are not allowed to take the test more than one time, so check your work and read carefully through the questions. Take your time and do not rush. This test is not a competition - it decides whether or not you will be accepted into the Catholic high school, so be circumspect about it.
• You will only need to take the HSPT once. You don't need to take it for every Catholic high school you're applying to. The other high schools you're applying to will receive your grade on the test from the high school you took it at, so you don't have to take the test multiple times.

• Proofread carefully. Not proofreading your essay may make you seem unprofessional or uninterested in making any effort of applying to a private high school, which decreases your chances of getting into one.
• You may want to ask your language arts teacher for help during office hours if you are unsure of how to write a private high school essay.
• Take the time to personalize your application essay.

• Start doing all of this in August-October. This way, you will not need to rush to turn everything in.

• Commonly asked questions include, "What draws you to this school?", "Do you have siblings that attend our school?", "What are your strengths?", "What pastimes do you have?", "What is your favorite subject in school?", and "What is your family like?" [5] X Research source
• Wear semi-formal clothing to the interview. Wear a polo shirt and trousers for a simple look. Another possibility could be wearing a white shirt with a coat jacket and trousers. A more feminine look would be a blouse and a knee-length skirt or even a pastel-colored dress.
• Do not wear overly bright colors, as that is not formal. Avoid overly revealing clothing, clothing with swear words, or otherwise inappropriate and informal clothing.

Expert Q&A

• Apply to at least 3 private high schools. If you don't get accepted into 2, one may still accept you. If you only apply to 1 or 2, there is a chance that those high schools will not accept you in. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Talk to your older siblings and guardians for advice and help on which private schools are the best fit for you. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you only have younger siblings or are an only child, you may feel like you are the first person to think about private high schools, as you have no older siblings with more experience to talk to. This could make you feel stressed and isolated, as younger siblings don't understand the high school process yet. If you're an only child, you have no one in your immediate family to talk to about your concerns. You can always talk to an older relative (whether that's an older cousin, aunt, uncle, parent, etc.) about the private high school process if that's something they're knowledgeable in. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.admission.org/process/application-process
• ↑ https://prepmatters.com/test-prep/whats-hspt-how-do-i-prepare/
• ↑ https://www.privateschoolreview.com/blog/5-things-every-private-school-applicant-should-do
• ↑ https://www.admission.org/advice/recommendation-letters-for-private-school-applications
• ↑ https://www.sparkadmissions.com/blog/high-school-interview-questions/

About this article

Did this article help you?

• About wikiHow
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

How to Write a Cover Letter

Applying for a job at a private school is a little different from posting your resume on Monster.com , which is what you would do if you were seeking a position in the business world. In the K-12 private school employment market, you present your application materials in the format and manner set forth on each individual school's website. In other words, you customize every application you submit. One size does not fit all. Each application requires an original cover letter, not one which you have used on another application. In case you think that this detail doesn't matter, remember that dozens of other applicants, i.e., your competitors for the position, will have followed specific application instructions to the letter. And that is as it should be. Don't question a school's application instructions. Do as it asks. Of course, when you have questions, do not hesitate to call the school and ask for clarification. Most of the time schools will be happy to help.

This video shows you how to write a four-sentence cover letter.

Let's take a look behind the scenes. I screened applications and interviewed candidates for almost two decades. My company did not specify a format for applying. It used Monster.com to find candidates who seemed to have the qualifications and experience which we were seeking. But I was always amazed, and sometimes shocked, by the resumes and the occasional cover letters which we received. Can you imagine submitting a cover letter or completing an application online with typos and spelling mistakes? I saw hundreds of those. I understand that business correspondence such as resumes and cover letters is not taught in high school anymore, or, at least, doesn't seem to be taught. That's too bad because sooner or later job-seekers begin to realize that there has to be a reason why they are not even getting a call back when they submit a job application. There are many reasons why they don't receive a callback, but one of the main reasons is that the person who is screening applications both online and in hard copy scans for keywords and appearance. The applications which meet the standard for a callback go in one folder; the applications which don't make it go in another folder. You must make absolutely certain that your job application ends up in the callback folder.

This video offers another take on writing a cover letter.

Examples of Employment Opportunities

The following are examples of the approaches to applying for a job that several private schools use.

From The Hill School, Pottstown, PA : "All resumes and cover letters must be submitted via the School’s online application system. Interested applicants may apply for jobs and read detailed job descriptions here. A representative of The Hill School will follow up with you if there is an interest in learning more about your skills and experience. Thank you for your interest in employment at The Hill School."

From Rowland Hall, Salt Lake City, UT :

"Rowland Hall Middle School is seeking a Three-Dimensional Studio Art Ensemble Teacher to lead instruction and direct the Middle School 3-D Studio Art Ensemble course. Students will design, sculpt, assemble, and configure different materials in processes brought to life by a practicing artist. Bachelor’s or master’s degree in education and/or studio art recommended. Review the complete job description. Please email a cover letter, resume, and references to Andrea Beckman, Middle School Administrative Assistant, at [email protected]" From Saint Paul's Episcopal School, Kansas City, MO

"Employment Opportunities/Current Positions

Toddler Associate Teacher (position begins in August) Part-time, 7:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. Mon-Fri. Benefits-eligible. Experience with young children required. A degree in Early Childhood preferred. Please send cover letter and resume to Sheila Abio, [email protected]"

Preparing the Cover Letter The cover letter or letter of interest is always one page in length. It must be crafted carefully and free of typos. Follow these guidelines if you are asked to submit your application by snail mail:

• Use plain white paper, not fancy vellum or parchment type of paper.
• Center your letter perfectly on the page.
• Use Microsoft Word or a similar program to create your letter.
• Use a plain font such as Arial.
• The font size should be 12 points.
• Print the final copy using a laser printer as laserjet ink smudges.
• Sign your cover letter using black ink.
• Use the address indicated on the school's employment page.
• Create a customized cover letter for each position for which you are applying.
• Put the cover letter and the required documentation in a large envelope so that you do not have to fold the materials.

Here's an example of a snail-mailed cover letter:

Most schools will ask you to email them a cover letter. Use the following format:

Tip: There is no need for a formal salutation or greeting such as "Dear Dr. Smith" in business emails. Nor is it necessary to use a formal close such as "Yours truly." Greetings and closes suit the more formal printed and snail-mailed business letter format. Email is crisp and business-like when you allow it to be.

This video offers another example of a cover letter.

Whether you use snail-mail or email formats for cover letters which the schools request, remember that these cover letters are not pitches. This type of cover letter simply explains what materials you are submitting and the position for which you are submitting them, as well as expressing your interest in the position which the school is advertising. Keep your message short and to the point.

Questions? Contact us on Facebook. @privateschoolreview

More Articles

Similar Letters

Application letter for nursing school. sample letter, application letter for a nursing school. sample letter, letter of application for graduate school. sample letter, application letter for high school. sample letter, letter example inquiring about a program for foreign nurses, letter to ask about an international exchange program, reference letter for an applicant for college admission, sample letter to ask about a program at a university abroad, admission letter for college. sample letter, application sample letter for an administrative assistant, job application letter of interest. sample letter, reference letter for a student applying for a school transfer, college application letter. sample letter, application letter for a job vacancy. sample letter, letter of applying for a position. sample letter, work visa application for research abroad sample letter, follow up letter after application. sample letter, letter of application for a nanny job in a foreign country, letter of application for a teaching position. sample letter, sample letter to apply to an excavation department abroad, letter categories, application letter for school admission. sample letter.

• Express your intentions in writing the letter / application.
• Make sure that you mention your qualifications and other supporting facts as to why you are eligible for admission to the school.
• End on a positive tone.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Letter Date]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-

Dear [Recipients Name],

I am writing to express my desire to enroll in your prestigious school for this coming school year. I believe that I am highly qualified and deserve to go to your honorable school because (list down the various positive qualities that you have here). Also, you will find that I have excellent academic records from my previous school. Please find attached my records for your perusal. I look forward to hearing from you about this matter.

Sincerely, [Senders Name] [Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional - cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Application letter for school admission. Sample letter.

Further things to consider when writing application letters to schools

Application Letters

Application letters are letters that you write to formally request for something from authority, apply for a job, or join an institution. Effective application letters will give a detailed explanation for your interest in the specific item, company, or institution. They showcase your abilities and strengths and illustrate your experience. In most cases, people write application letters to express their interest in receiving a position, attending an institution, or when applying for a visa, for instance. In all scenarios, application letters must be accompanied by the relevant documents. Application letters are the perfect tool to demonstrate something of your personality. Therefore, you should write in a professional tone setting a clear outline that allows the reader to scan the primary data quickly. Introduce yourself and briefly explain your intent and reason for the application. Address the letter with a title or name of the recipient. If your application is for a job or to join an institution, for example, you need to highlight your experience and qualification; if you are applying for a travel visa, make sure to state a clear intention for your travel. End with a positive tone and invite the recipient to contact you.

Letters to Schools

Letters to schools are letters written to institutions designed to provide learning environment and spaces to pupils and students. There are many times when you may feel the need to write to a school administration. Maybe you want to recommend a student or employee or want to apply for an academic program. Perhaps your child has a disability, and you want to make sure that he/she is receiving special education services. Whatever the issue, putting your thoughts in writing avoids confusion since it provides you and the recipient with a record of your request. It is, therefore, crucial to keep a copy of any letter you send. All letters to schools must use the standard business letter style. Start your letter with the proper address and salutation. Introduce yourself and explain the reason for your letter clearly and concisely. Depending on the content of your letter, provide any documentation that gives the recipient reference to the case or clarifies your concerns. Keep the tone polite, respectful, and professional. Close by thanking the recipient for his/her time and with a note of anticipation of positive feedback. Sign off and proofread the final draft before sending it.

These articles may interest you

• Application
• application letters
• school application

• Follow Us On:

• What is the CPIR?
• What’s on the Hub?
• CPIR Resource Library
• Buzz from the Hub
• Event Calendar
• Survey Item Bank
• CPIR Webinars
• What are Parent Centers?
• National RAISE Center
• RSA Parent Centers
• Regional PTACs
• Find Your Parent Center
• CentersConnect (log-in required)
• Parent Center eLearning Hub

Select Page

Informing the School of Your Intention to Enroll Your Child in a Private School at Public Expense

Current as of October 2021 En español | In Spanish

There are times when you, as a parent, may want to communicate in writing with your child’s school about some problem or concern with your child’s education or well-being. This page presents a model letter or email you might write to inform the school that you intend to enroll your child in a private school at public expense  (meaning that you intend the school to pay the cost of the private school).

General letter-writing tips

• Model letter

 ______________

What do I do if I think my child’s placement should be in a private school?

In some cases, the most appropriate placement for a child is in a private school. When this placement decision is made by the IEP team or placement group in the public school, the public school pays the cost of the private school.

Sometimes a parent may feel that a recommended public school placement is not appropriate for his or her child. The parent may reject that placement and decide to enroll his or her child in a private school. If you find yourself facing this decision and you want the public school to reimburse you for the cost of the private school, there are several things you need to know.

1. A court or a hearing officer may require the school district to reimburse you if the court or hearing officer decides that:

(a) the public school did not make FAPE available in a timely manner prior to your child’s enrollment in the private school, and

(b) the private placement is appropriate.

2. Your request for reimbursement may be reduced or denied if, before enrolling your child in the private school:

(a) at the most recent IEP meeting, you did not inform the school that you were rejecting the proposed placement (including stating your concerns) and intended to enroll your child in a private school at public expense, or

(b) at least 10 business days prior to removing your child from the public school, you did not give the school written notice.

The model letter below is an example of a letter you might send if you decide to enroll your child in a private school and want the public school to pay for it.

Once you have sent this letter to the school, you will also need to make a request for a due process hearing so that a hearing officer can decide whether or not the public school must reimburse you for the costs of the private school. See the separate resource page (and sample letter) on due process .

Back to top

When writing any business letter, it is important to keep it short and to the point. First, start by asking yourself the following questions and state the answers in your letter:

•  Why am I writing?
• What are my specific concerns?
• What are my questions?
• What would I like the person to do about this situation?
• What sort of response do I want: a letter, a meeting, a phone call, or something else?

Each letter you write should include the following basic information:

• Put the date on your letter.
• Give your child’s full name and the name of your child’s main teacher or current class placement.
• Say what you want, rather than what you don’t want. Keep it simple.
• Give your address and a daytime phone number where you can be reached.
• Always end your letter with a “thank you.”

 What are some other tips to keep in mind?

  You want to make a good impression so that the person reading your letter will understand your request and say “yes.” Remember, this person may not know you, your child, or your child’s situation. Keep the tone of your letter pleasant and businesslike. Give the facts without letting anger, frustration, blame, or other negative emotions creep in. Some letter-writing tips include:

• After you write your first draft, put the letter aside for a day or two. Then look at it again and revise it with fresh eyes.
• Read your letter as though you are the person receiving it. Is your request clear? Have you included the important facts? Does your letter ramble on and on? Is it likely to offend, or is the tone businesslike?
• Have someone else read your letter for you. Is your reason for writing clear? Can the reader tell what you are asking for? Would the reader say “yes” if he or she received this letter? Can your letter be improved?
• Use spell check and grammar check on the computer. Or ask someone reliable to edit your letter before you send it.
• Keep a copy for your records.

Back to top _______________

Model Letter

Today’s Date (include month, day, and year)

Your Name Street Address City, State, Zip Code Daytime telephone number

Name of Principal or Special Education Administrator Name of School Street Address City, State, Zip Code

Dear (Principal’s or Administrator’s name),

My son/daughter, (child’s name), is a special education student in the ( _ ) grade in (name of teacher)’s class at (name of school). Recently, I attended a meeting to determine (child’s name)’s school placement. I am writing to inform you that I reject the proposed placement for (child’s name), and intend to enroll him/her in a private school at public expense. At the most recent IEP meeting, held on (date), I informed the other team members of my decision.

The reasons for my decision are as follows: (Keep this section brief, list specifics for why you believe the public school placement is not appropriate for your child).

  (Child’s name) will be attending (name of private school), effective (date).

Should you wish to discuss this matter further, I can be reached at (give your phone number). Thank you for your time.

cc: your child’s principal (if letter is addressed to an administrator) your child’s teacher(s)

Note:  The “cc:” at the bottom of the letter means you are sending a copy of your letter to the people listed after the cc.

Highly Rated Resource!   This resource was reviewed by 3-member panels of Parent Center staff working independently from one another to rate the quality, relevance, and usefulness of CPIR resources. This resource was found to be of “High Quality, High Relevance, High Usefulness” to Parent Centers.

_________________________________________________________

Would you like to read another letter?

Discussing a problem https://www.parentcenterhub.org/problem/

Requesting a copy of your child’s records https://www.parentcenterhub.org/records-2/

Requesting an evaluation for special education services https://www.parentcenterhub.org/evaluation-2/

Requesting an independent evaluation https://www.parentcenterhub.org/iee-3/

Requesting a meeting to review your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) https://www.parentcenterhub.org/iep-2/

Requesting a change in your child’s placement https://www.parentcenterhub.org/placement-2/

Informing the school that you intend to place your child in a private school at public expense (You’re already here)

Requesting prior written notice https://www.parentcenterhub.org/notice/

Requesting Mediation to resolve a conflict https://www.parentcenterhub.org/mediation-2/

Requesting a due process hearing to resolve a conflict https://www.parentcenterhub.org/hearing/

Filing a complaint with the State to resolve a conflict https://www.parentcenterhub.org/statecomplaint-2/

Welcome, Login to your account.

Recover your password.

A password will be e-mailed to you.

How to Write an Application Letter as a Teacher in a Private School

Applying for a teaching position in a private school can be a rewarding experience, but it also requires careful preparation.

Your application letter serves as your first impression, and it’s crucial to get it right.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of writing an effective application letter for a teaching job in a private school in Ghana.

Understand the Requirements

Before you start writing, it’s essential to understand the job requirements and qualifications. Private schools often have specific criteria they look for in a teacher, such as particular certifications, teaching philosophies, or subject matter expertise.

Make sure you meet these requirements or explain how your unique skills can benefit the school.

Research the School

Take some time to research the school you’re applying to. Understand its mission, values, and teaching philosophies. This information will help you tailor your application letter to align with the school’s culture and needs.

Structure of the Letter

A well-structured letter is easier to read and makes a better impression. Here’s a basic outline you can follow:

• Salutation : Address the letter to the hiring manager or the person indicated in the job posting.
• Introduction : Briefly introduce yourself and mention how you heard about the job opportunity.
• Body : Discuss your qualifications, experience, and why you’re a good fit for the job.
• Conclusion : Summarize your points and express enthusiasm for the role.
• Closing : End with a polite closing and your signature.

Sample Application Letter as a Teacher in a Private School

Here’s a sample application letter to give you an idea of how to structure yours:

• Proofread : Make sure to proofread your letter carefully to avoid any spelling or grammatical errors.
• Be Professional : Use a professional tone and language throughout your letter.
• Follow Instructions : If the job posting has specific instructions for the application, make sure to follow them.

For those who are applying for a teaching job for the first time, you might find it challenging to discuss experience you don’t have. In such cases, focus on your educational background, teaching philosophies, and any relevant skills or volunteer work. For more tips on how to write an application letter without teaching experience, you can visit this helpful guide .

- Advertisement -

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to crafting an application letter that stands out. Good luck with your application!

Thank you for reading on Asetena.com Share this article with your family and friends.

Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram for more updates.

Email: [email protected]

When it comes to tech, very few ladies are involved and this is something I would want to change. I am fascinated by the Internet of Things and blockchain technology. Currently, I am studying Civil Engineering at KNUST.

How to Write an Application Letter for a Cleaning Job in an…

How to Contact the National Service Secretariat (NSS) of…

How Do I Write An Application Letter For A Private School Teaching Job?

• June 20, 2023

How do I write an application letter for a private school teaching job? – If you desire to apply for a job and you need to write an application letter, then this article is for you. Whenever you want to apply for any job, there are certain documents and requirements that you must meet before they consider you for the job. Generally, you will submit those documents as a resumé, alongside your intent which is usually your application letter.

 An application letter is commonly used when applying for a teaching job because it’s the best way you can show your talent and also convince the employer that you are the best fit for the job. In this article, we will describe how you can write an application letter to a private school for a teaching job. So let’s dive in. 

There are certain steps you need to follow when applying for a teaching job in private schools. These steps are 

1. Start with your name, address, and contact information

The first step to writing an application letter for a private teaching job is to write your name, address, and contact information. This is usually written at the top right corner of your letter. After writing your own address and contact information, you will go to the top left side of the letter and write the contact address of the school. Generally, most schools have an online page. You can check there for necessary information regarding the school, which will help you draft an excellent application letter. 

2. Address the hiring manager 

On the school’s online page, you may likely see who the hiring manager or employer is. This will help you know who to address while writing the letter. So after you finish writing the date and other information at the top corners of your letter, your next step is to address the letter’s receiver. If, after checking, you still can’t get the hiring manager’s name you can address them with Dear Sir or Dear Ma. Also, you will find the school’s contact information in the job description so you can freely contact them and ask who is responsible for hiring and interviewing new teachers. 

3. Write the purpose of your letter 

The purpose of your letter should look like the topic or the title of the letter. This will tell the employer what to expect in the letter. Maybe their job openings aren’t only for teachers, so your title will tell them you are applying for a teaching job. 

4. Start the letter with a summary

Open your letter with a summary of yourself. You know many applicants, and you want the hiring manager to read your letter from beginning to end. So it’s important to be as concise as possible and only include important information. In this section, you will describe your personality. Note that even the way you write will describe your personality, the tone you use, the way you construct your sentences, and many more. Most times, the way employers used to know who actually a candidate is, is through their way of writing. So while writing, make sure you do it in such a way that it will perfectly describe a good image of you that will leave an impression on the employer. You will describe what makes you an excellent choice for the job, so include only important information that will tell the reader what they will gain by hiring you. 

5. Outline your education

Once you finish summarizing who you are in the letter’s first paragraph, the next thing to describe is your education. Even though it’s generally known that anybody applying for a teaching job has at least a degree or other certification, it’s still necessary for you to describe the extent of your education in the letter, even for verification purposes. If you have any honor or distinction you received during your school days, this is the best place to describe them. You can also explain why you are interested in teaching here. 

6. Explain your experience 

If you have worked as a teacher before, your next step is to explain your previous work experience. If this is your first time, then you can describe your work experience, which will help you deliver the work diligently. For instance, if you have worked in a company before, you can describe the experience you gain from there. You can write things like you learn good communication skills and teamwork from your previous experience, which is beneficial for a teaching job. Overall, this section should contain all your work experience and accomplishments you are proud of in relevance to a teaching job. 

7. Highlight your teaching style and values 

This is one of the most crucial parts of your letter. In this part, describe your teaching method and values as a teacher. Also, explain how you created those values and how you used to follow them in the classroom. You can describe anecdotes from your previous work or how one student positively changed your teaching method. You can also explain some skills you possess which help you deliver your work excellently. Ensure to highlight skills like patience and enthusiasm because they are among the top skills every teacher needs to have. This is generally the last paragraph of your letter before closing remarks, so at the end of the paragraph, you can write things you look forward to hearing from them. 

8. Close the letter with a polite remark

At the end of the letter, close it with a polite remark. This will show the employer how appreciative you are for their time. Also, explain your plans to follow up. The letter’s last paragraph should leave a memorable impression on the reader. You can summarize your qualifications and highlight why you are the best fit for the job. 

Skills That Make A Good Private School Teacher 

A good teacher can make a positive impact on the lives of their students. Below are some skills you can master to become a good teacher to your students. 

1. Communication skills 

Among the top important skills every teacher should have is communication. Through communication, you will identify the areas your students are lacking and how you can help them. 

2. Listening skills 

Not only communication, but you must also have listening skills. It’s through giving your students good listening ears that you will understand and observe them. For example, you will get to know anxious and nervous students and understand how you can help them overcome their fears and become more confident. 

3. Adaptation skills

You know the world is changing, and every day new knowledge is emerging. You must have the skills to adapt to every working environment and incorporate any new knowledge that will benefit your students. 

4. Engagement skills 

There are different personalities among your students. You must learn how to engage every one of them without leaving them feeling bored or out of place, or unwelcomed. 

5. Empathy 

Aside from engaging your students, you need to have empathy. Show them you understand them and know whatever they are going through and that you are willing to help them. 

Conclusion 

Teaching is one of the most enjoyable jobs you can do. When you are ready to take the big steps in your life, there are many ways you can achieve that. Aside from submitting your resumé, writing a good application letter can go a long way in expressing to your employer that you are the best fit for the job. You can follow the steps above to write an excellent application letter. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is an application letter for a private school teaching job.

An application letter is a formal document that introduces yourself to a private school and expresses your interest in a teaching position. It highlights your qualifications, relevant experience, and reasons for wanting to work at that particular school.

What should I include in my application letter?

Your application letter should include a formal greeting, an introduction that states the position you are applying for, a brief overview of your qualifications, a description of your relevant experience, a statement of your teaching philosophy, and a closing paragraph expressing your interest and availability for an interview.

How should I format my application letter?

Format your application letter as a professional business letter. Use a formal tone and font, and make sure to include your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s details. Organize your letter into paragraphs with clear headings, and proofread it for any errors or typos.

How can I make my application letter stand out?

To make your application letter stand out, tailor it to the specific school and position you are applying for. Research the school’s values, mission, and educational approach, and emphasize how your skills and experience align with their goals. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements and abilities.

Should I include a resume with my application letter?

Yes, it is generally recommended to include a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) along with your application letter. Your resume provides a comprehensive overview of your education, work experience, certifications, and other relevant details. Make sure your resume complements the information in your application letter.

References 

Naijaonlinebiz.com — teaching job application letter

www.indeed.com – how to write an application letter for a teaching job 

Snhu.edu – qualities of a good teacher

Teacherph.com – private teacher school 

Recommendations 

How to write an application letter for the ministry of health 

How to write an application letter to a store 

How to write an application letter for the post of a secretary 

• How Do I Write An Application Letter For A Private school Teaching Job?
• Private School
• Private school teacher
• Skills That Make A Good Private School Teacher

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Best Bag For Engineering Student

How to write an application letter to a hotel, you may also like.

How to Study Medicine in Poland

• July 1, 2023

How To Make Tool In Little Alchemy

• April 8, 2023

How To Invest For Future Planning

• March 14, 2023

How To Run A Successful Student Organization

• May 6, 2023

How To Write A Speech For Student Council Treasurer

• May 9, 2023

How To Write An Application Letter For A Waitress Job In Nigeria