What do schools look for in a resume and cover letter?

First, I look for a strong college or university (Tufts is one). Then, I look for teaching experience. Then I look for explicit reference to our program in the cover letter-I don't want it to be generic. I hate the "objective" section that is so common now. I'm probably in the minority on this. But it just seems like filler to me--I want to say, "Of course you want a job in an urban public school!"
- Scott McCue, Head of School, Boston Preparatory Charter Public School

We look for teachers with a solid educational background and content knowledge and proven experience with urban students.
- Dana Lehman, Tufts MA 2005, Co-Director, Roxbury Preparatory Charter School

In a cover letter, it is good to see an understanding of our school - while I know it is challenging to look into each place you would apply, if a school can tell that you are just sending out a complete form letter that is less strong than someone who seems genuinely interested or to have done their homework. Also it is good if there is personality in the tone, which can be hard to convey, but a quick anecdote or some sharing of philosophy can get you in the door.

In a resume, it is good if it is neat and easy to read, as anyone will say, but also, in our urban district, I have found that many folks actually want to see if there has been other experience in similar situations. This probably goes in the letter, but some indication of
classroom management style or strengths for those of you who are new to
teaching will help as well.
- Courtney Harter, Tufts MAT 2000, Headmaster of School Two, Leominster High School

Direct reference to and description of prior teaching experience: what age group(s), kind(s) of school(s), brief description of teaching philosophy. Also, must include any certification. Cover letters need not be long however they must be well-written and specific to the school. It is very obvious when people use form letters and just cut and paste the name of the school in. This does not leave a good first impression.
- Emma Stellman, Associate Principal of Curriculum, Community Charter School of Cambridge

I expect the resumes to be clean looking and well aligned and with enough space-ie. not jammed together. Given that we are an art school, presentation is important to me. I also look for a thoughtful cover letter that is written for the job at my school and shows that the candidate has looked at my school and done his/her research. I like to learn something about the candidate in the cover letter. I like to know about other interests. I will hire one science teacher over another if all things being equal one plays the French horn. Sometimes candidates don't think those "other skills" or passions are important, but that's what I'm looking for…other than a great social studies teacher, who else are you and why? And why are you interested in my school instead of another's school? I am always interested in other languages spoken.
- Linda Nathan, Headmaster, Boston Arts Academy

How do I make myself stand out?

I think through the cover letter and through the references you list.
- Linda Nathan, Headmaster, Boston Arts Academy

Specific commentary on why you might think there is a fit between the schools mission and program, and the candidate. Not just "I'm really interested in charter schools."
- Scott McCue, Boston Preparatory Charter Public School

Candidates with prior experience and a well-written cover letter stand out. It is helpful when the cover letter makes it clear that the candidate has done some research about the school and thought about why he/she might be a good fit.
- Dana Lehman, Co-Director, Roxbury Preparatory Charter School

What is appropriate follow-up after sending in my resume?

I'm happy for a candidate to call to check in a couple of weeks after sending it.
- Scott McCue, Boston Preparatory Charter Public School

I encourage candidates to call one to two weeks after sending the resume.
- Dana Lehman, Co-Director, Roxbury Preparatory Charter School

A quick note, phone message, or even email is fine.
- Courtney Harter, Tufts MAT 2000, Headmaster of School Two, Leominster High School

Call school to ask if papers have been received. Ask what time frame is and if candidates can expect a phone call or email.
- Emma Stellman, Associate Principal of Curriculum, Community Charter School of Cambridge

Usually nothing. In a place like Lexington, the HR department processes applications. Personal communications with me are not necessarily helpful.
- Michael Jones, Principal, Lexington High School

How long should my resume be?

Short and Sweet. No more than 2 pages. Long lists of activities and superficial achievements make my eyes glaze.
- Scott McCue, Boston Preparatory Charter Public School

1-2 pages are sufficient.
- Dana Lehman, Co-Director, Roxbury Preparatory Charter School

One page.
- Courtney Harter, Tufts MAT 2000, Headmaster of School Two, Leominster High School
- Meg Campbell, Head of School, Codman Academy

I think this depends on age and experience but no more than 3 pages for an older person and probably one or 2 pages for a younger person.
- Linda Nathan, Headmaster, Boston Arts Academy