ANN ARBOR SKYLINE HIGH SCHOOL

Ann Arbor Public Schools

2552 N. Maple Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Cory McElmeel

Principal
734.994.6515
mcelmeel@aaps.k12.mi.us

May 20, 2015

Dear Sir or Madam:
This letter offers my enthusiastic recommendation for Justina Spinale as she applies for a
teaching position. I had the pleasure of working with Justina during the fall semester of
the 2014-2015 school year. Justina completed pre-service hours with me in my Chemistry
course at Skyline High School as part of the teacher education program at Eastern
Michigan University.
Ms. Spinale spent 30 hours in my classroom during the fall 2014 semester to gain
classroom experience prior to student teaching. She did this through a combination of
observation, mentoring individual and small groups of students, and whole class
presentations. Her experience culminated with a 50-minute lesson she taught at the end of
the trimester on atomic theory. During her time in my classroom, I observed many
positive characteristics that will make Ms. Spinale an exemplary teacher.
I have mentored several pre-service teachers over the years, but Ms. Spinale was
outstanding compared to her peers in many ways, most notably with her strong
organizational and interpersonal skills. Although she only attended my class twice each
week, she developed strong relationships with many of my students by learning all of the
students names, engaging them in conversation, and mentoring them before and during
class. She exhibited comfort with approaching students and leading small groups. Ms.
Spinale also demonstrated confidence when in front of the classroom. While teaching a
highly engaging and well organized lesson on the history of atomic theory, Ms. Spinale
held the students attention by facilitating smooth transitions and offering opportunities
for interaction among peers in small group and large group settings. Ms. Spinale also
maintained the utmost professionalism at all times. She submitted drafts of lesson plans
to me at least one week before teaching them and effectively communicated her needs.
She exhibited a willingness to work collegially as she presented lesson ideas, accepted
feedback, and made necessary revisions.
I am confident Justina Spinales passion and enthusiasm for teaching will contribute
positively to your school. Please contact me should you require additional information or
clarification.
Respectfully,

Dusti Jean Vincent

Science Teacher
Skyline High School
vincentd@aaps.k12.mi.us