Susan M.

, Koenig-VandeHaar, BFA, MSE Art teacher, Jefferson Elementary Traditional School 2425 Watrous Des Moines, Iowa 50321 515-242-8416 515-249-3335 (cell)

To Whom It May Concern: I am writing on behalf of Katlynn Sammons. She was my student teacher for the spring 2013 term from Drake University. She was an exemplary student and will be an excellent teacher. She is able to develop creative lesson plans that encourage and promote critical thinking, and problem solving skills. She can tie her lessons to the national standards for art and to the common core. Her classroom management skills are, also, excellent. She is very patient with students, especially those that struggle or need extra help. She is able to break down the goals for the students into manageable pieces, so that they can be successful. She is open to students coming in for extra time with her. Her classes were well run with good time management and transitioning skills. She is able to develop strong assessments that make clear to students and families the project, the goals, and why they received their grade. I would highly recommend her for placement. She will be an asset to your staff, and a wonderful teacher for the students, and their families. She is very knowledgeable in her area of art education and art history. I am proud that she will be part of my profession. I have had other student teachers and Katlynn is by far the best I have had. She was a pleasure to work with. Most sincerely,

Susan M. Koenig-VandeHaar, BFA, MSE susan.koenigvandehaar@dmschools.org

March 14, 2013

Dear Madam or Sir,

I am writing this letter to recommend Katlynn Sammons for a position in your school district. As Katlynns supervising teacher for student teaching at Drake University, I will say that she has done an exemplary job in her student teaching experience this spring semester. Her assignments included teaching art at Jefferson Elementary and Weeks Middle School in the Des Moines Public Schools.

Katlynn brings to the classroom excellent content knowledge in art. She has established a positive atmosphere for learning. Students respond well to her and her cheerful disposition is pleasing to them. Katlynns great strength is her patience with students. She also presents information in varied and meaningful designs.

Katlynn manages to maintain her authority and, at the same time, she is friendly and relaxed with students. Katlynns mentor teacher said that she has had many good student teachers but none that would equal Katlynns level of expertise.

While Kaylynn is very professional in her lesson planning and execution, she balances that with a level of caring for students. Any district would be fortunate to have her on staff. I recommend her without reservation. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me.

Sincerely, Diane Stilley Supervisor of Student Teaching Drake University (515) 255-4354