Are you ready to resign from your teaching position? Whom should you notify about your decision to quit? If you are considering leaving your current teaching job, it is proper to write a teacher resignation letter, to announce your departure. The resignation letter should be addressed to the school administration and the principal. Additionally, you may inform parents if you plan to leave within the school academic year.
In some cases, the school administration may require you to provide at least two weeks’ notice, or more depending on your employment contract, and an explanation for wanting to resign from your position.
1. What should you include in a resignation letter?
2. General tips for teachers to consider when writing a resignation letter
3. Sample teacher resignation letters
Regardless of the reason for resigning, it’s essential to maintain a positive tone in your letter. When corresponding with parents ensure the letter reiterates the positive atmosphere of the school, as well as the positive change for their children. Also, express your excitement for the change in your career.
However, when it comes to the letter you plan to send to the administration, you should remain professional, positive and straightforward. Remember, departing on a good note secures your chance of getting a good recommendation letter, if and when you need one to get a new job.
Generally, a resignation letter is essential when:
What to include in the teacher resignation letter:
While there are many reasons to want to resign from your current position at work, it’s important to remain positive and professional. Follow the tips below to ensure your intention is communicated clearly and professionally:
1. Be concise
When composing your letter, keep it short and straight to the point. Don’t forget to include your contact information, the fact that you are resigning, and the official date when your resignation will be effective.
Refrain from including negative information that could burn bridges. Do not use your resignation letter as an opportunity to vent out your frustrations. Unless necessary, do not give your reasons for resigning.
2. Give proper notice
No matter your reasons for resigning, ensure that you give adequate notice and offer to help the school with the transition. It can be tough to find a replacement for you within a short period. Therefore, giving a proper notice ensures the school prepares adequately for your departure. Do not wait until the last minute to give your notice, especially if you plan to leave within the school year.
3. Maintain professionalism
No matter your reason for leaving, don’t express negativity. Remain positive and upbeat. State that you are happy to help in whatever way possible to ensure a smooth transition for both your students and your replacement.
4. Arrange for an exit interview
It is essential to arrange for a meeting with the principal or superintendent before resigning. It allows the organization an opportunity to obtain frank and constructive feedback from employees who are terminating their employment. Doing this demonstrates your professionalism, respect, and appreciation for your employer. Additionally, this is an excellent opportunity to highlight your reasons for leaving if you didn’t want to include such information in your resignation letter, and leave the institution on good terms with the management.
5. Be certain about your decision
Resigning from a job is a huge deal. It would be best if you have considered all aspects that rely on your employment, especially since it’s your source of income. Will your bills be up to date? Do you have another job planned out? Ensure that you have a plan before terminating your employment.
Additionally, if you plan to continue teaching consider the fact that quitting mid-academic year will paint a negative picture on your future employer since this depicts that you’re more likely to leave your position mid-year again once hired. Therefore, be tactful in your approach to resigning.
Example 1
Ms. Jessica English
Address
City, state zip code
Date
Ms. Beth Principal
Principal
ABC school
Address
City, State Zip Code
Dear, Ms. Principal,
Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my position as a 3rd grade English teacher with the ABC school. My final date of employment will be December 17, 20xx.
Teaching the third grade has given me the greatest pleasure over the past couple of years, and I highly appreciate the support and guidance I received during my tenure from colleagues and the school’s administration.
I wish you and the school the very best, moving forward. If I can be of any assistance to you during the remaining period, kindly let me know.
Sincerely,
Signature (hard copy letter)
Jessica English
Example 2
Your name
123 street address
City, State Zip
Your phone number
Your Email
Date
Contact name
Title
Institution
123 Street Address
City, State Zip
Dear [Principal/ Supervisor/ Superintendent],
Kindly accept this letter as my official notice of resignation as the 5th grade English teacher at [mention school] effective [resignation date].
After much consideration, I have decided to [give reasons for resignation, e.g., pursuing a master’s degree in your subject of expertise, concentrating on your family, change of career or early retirement]. I truly enjoyed my tenure at [mention school]. Teaching the 5th grade has been a pleasure, and I genuinely appreciated the opportunity of exchanging ideas with fellow staff members during my tenure. Similarly, it has been gratifying to teach and watch students learn and develop their language skills.
Under your leadership, I am confident [mention school] incredible reputation regarding performance and teaching standards will continue soaring high. Thank you again for the support, advice and mentoring you gave me during my tenure. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with you and the institution in general. I wish you and [mention school] the very best moving forward.
Sincerely,
Your Signature
Your name
Example 3
Your name
123 street address
City, State Zip
Your phone number
Your Email
Date
Contact name
Title
Institution
123 Street Address
City, State Zip
Dear Sir/Madam,
It is with regret that I submit my letter of resignation as the Biology teacher at XYZ school effective from 1st January 20xx.
I assure you that I intend to work closely with my replacement during the transition period to ensure that the students learning is not affected negatively. I have created a detailed, complete lesson plan and included all the necessary course materials and teaching guides to help my replacement as s/he takes over the class. All the student’s files have been updated to ensure my replacement understands the needs of each student and caters to them.
Being a teacher in this institution has been a privilege as well as an invaluable opportunity. I am gratefully for the support I received during my tenure. Kindly contact me if you have any questions or need any assistance. I wish you and XYZ the very best moving forward.
Regards,
Signature
Your name.
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