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 to 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 (manipulative's, 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
Please visit other, helpful links at our Job Search for Educators page
