SCHOOL OF EDUCATION HEALTH & SOCIETYOffice of Student Teaching and Field Experience202McGuffey Hall210 E. Spring StreetOxford, OH 45056513-529-7245

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my pleasure to write a letter of recommendation for Meghan Riley. Meghan was a teacher intern for the Fall 2015 semester at Talawanda Middle School in the Talawanda School District. Meghan taught eighth grade Algebra I and sixth grade science in a split placement. Both classroom settings promoted collaboration, cooperative learning, and differentiated instruction. Meghan worked closely with her cooperating teachers, Mrs. Murray, math and Mr. Huelsman, science. In both settings the partnership was collaborative and professional.

As Meghan’s university supervisor, I have had several opportunities to observe her teaching a variety of lessons and activities. From the start, Meghan has taken an interest in meeting the needs of her students. Her lessons, based upon Ohio’s New Learning Standards, promoted student engagement and growth. While teaching Algebra I, an advanced math course for eighth grade students, Meghan worked closely with her cooperating teacher in implementing lessons aligned to the 9th grade Algebra I Common Core standards using the Connected mathematics Project 3 (CMP3) curriculum which is student centered and inquiry based.

In her sixth grade science placement, Meghan used Talawanda’s district adopted Lab-aid science curriculum to teach lessons that provided students opportunities to design and conduct scientific investigations, the ability to analyze and interpret data, think critically, and communicate findings in their scientific journals.

It is apparent that classroom management skills that foster a nurturing learning environment are important to Meghan. She continually worked to fine-tune her classroom management techniques, realizing the importance of consistency, fairness, and a child’s self-esteem. Her enthusiasm for teaching is clearly apparent.

Meghan realizes the importance of incorporating a variety of learning opportunities for her students, differentiating instructional strategies to meet the needs of all learners. The use of technology was utilized in many lessons as Meghan incorporated a variety of available resources to enhance learning opportunities for her students. These included: an interactive whiteboard, document camera, and individual student Chromebooks.

Meghan’s self-confidence and professionalism enabled her to become immersed in the school setting. Meghan participated in department, grade-level and building meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and professional development opportunities presented by the district. She is open to new ideas and learning possibilities.

I have enjoyed working with Meghan as her supervisor. I would not hesitate to recommend her for a teaching position. She will be a positive addition to the teaching profession. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me via email at stephepd@miamioh.edu or 513-461-3318.

Sincerely,

Patricia StephensSupervisor Student TeachersMiami University