I'm trying to write a cover letter for jobs as a museum educator or docent and I really don't know what to say. I have a B.A. in History and an M.A. in Adolescent Education, but my classroom management skills are, well, not exactly existent. I'm great with younger kids and I'm good at lesson planning but other than that I really don't know what I should say. Can anyone help me?

Here's a pretty decent one that was on Internet (plug in your own information?):

FirstName LastName
87 Washington Street
Smithfield, CA 08055
555-555-5555 (h)
123-123-1234 (c)
Email

Date



Mr. John Doe
Smithfield Elementary School
Main Street
Smithfield, CA 08055

Dear Mr. Doe,

Thank you for taking the time to review my resume. I am applying for the Prevention Educator position because I am looking to use my degree in Elementary Education, in combination with my Concentration in Sociology, in an alternative way to a traditional teaching position.

I have had the opportunities to work with children and adults of all ages and abilities while I was student teaching for XXX College, substitute teaching in local districts, working as a Museum Educator, and as the assistant trainer at a local riding stable.

I am seeking a career that will allow me to continue working with people in many different ways. I hope you will find that I am qualified for the position you are trying to fill.

If I can provide you with any further information on my background and qualifications, please let me know. I look forward to hearing from you. I can be reached at XXX-XXX-XXXX or via email at [email protected].

Very truly yours,


XXXXX

That sounds great... except that I JUST got my Masters 3 weeks ago and I have only worked at camps and my student teaching didn't go very well (I'm not certified).

Ok -- now it's time to adapt and be flexible. How organized are you (lesson plans? )? How creative are you? Have you spent a lot of time with kids -- babysitting, camp counselor, etc. beyond anything formal? (Volunteer is fine.) Why would you be a good museum educator and/or docent? Do you talk well, forming words clearly and speaking loudly, your voice carrying? Are you interested in what a museum has to offer? How does that show?

(I should call you to interview you... Tell me everything that would make you a good museum educator and docent.)

I took the cover letter you posted and modified it. I think I pretty much had writer's block and didn't know where to start. Would you like me to post what I have here or can I pm it to you?

Either way!