Job Search For Educators

TEACHER PORTFOLIOS

While there is no required format for a Teacher Portfolio there are some general guideline you may want to follow.

PURPOSE

• Showcase your accomplishments
• Target your strengths at a district's/school's needs
• Provide prospective employers with evidence of your ability to present information in a clear and creative manner

WHAT TO INCLUDE  tip - be selective

• Table of Contents
• Resume
• Philosophy of Education
• Lesson Plans - These should be unique & effective examples.  Select 3 for each district reflecting needs you have researched.
• Photos of Class - Explain photographs with brief captions.
• Materials from Lessons You Have Taught - Include teacher-made materials (manipulatives, rubrics, games, worksheets) or samples of student work.
• Student Evaluations
• Reflections, Inspirational Quotations or Poetry
• Evaluation Forms Completed by Student Teacher Supervisors (Master Teachers)
• List of References
• Letters of Recommendation
• Official Documents - Transcripts, Teacher Certificates, PRAXIS & other Certification test scores

HOW TO ORGANIZE IT ALL

THEMATIC - Must relate to needs of school & your strengths
CATEGORICAL - One section for each heading

GENERAL TIPS

•  Refer to your portfolio when answering questions in an interview - allows you to show examples
• Your portfolio must be well-organized, neat and visually appealing
• The portfolio may be contained in a 3-ring binder or a portfolio case

The tips above were compiled from Robert Feirsen and Seth Weitzman's How to Get the Teaching Job You Want (2001).  This book - and more information for the teaching candidate can be found in the Career Resource Center, Bldg. 124, Rm. 117.

Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Building 124
805 756-2501

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