Susan M.Dardar June 16,2014 Dear Colleague, {As Melissa Miller’s student teaching supervisor for Columbia College Chicago from January to May of 2014, I observed Ms. Miller’s practice in both an elementary school and a high school setting, and based on my observations, wholeheartedly recommend her to you for an art teaching position. When | first met Ms. Miller, she was already an experienced mathematics teacher, and I was immediately impressed with her understanding of best practices in the classroom, and her dedication to expanding her own knowledge in order to facilitate optimum student learning. ‘Throughout the supervision period, as I read Ms. Miller’s well-constructed lesson plans, observed her enthusiastic instruction and meticulous management of the overall classroom, and engaged in discussions with her, as she candidly reflected on her own practice, | was never disappointed. | found her to be a caring, conscientious teacher committed to reaching all students through meaningful, intellectually challenging, and engaging lessons. The learning environment that Ms. Miller designed and maintained was a place where students could explore their creativity while acquiring multiple skills as they learned the value of developing a good work ethic, and the importance of self-discipline and cooperation with others. Further, | observed Ms. Miller actively seek out and establish strong, collaborative relationships with her colleagues, her students’ family members, and the greater school community. What | found most unique about Ms. Miller was her ability to excel in two very different teaching environments. At Ogden International, an elementary school, I was not only impressed with Ms. Miller's instruction and classroom management, but also with her composure and leadership on the occasions when parents were working in her classroom. | also took note of her adeptness in making ‘good use of the school’s numerous resources, many of which were the result of fundraising efforts at Ogden, which Ms. Miller participated in. While at Al Raby High School, where most students suffer severely from economic and social inequities, Ms. Miller proved herself to be a beacon of hope. I visited the school one day to find Ms. Miller’s students sketching flowers at the Garfield Conservatory, located directly across the street from the school. It was the first time students from the school had ever ventured across the street to make use of a phenomenal Chicago resource. | watched the students, with their viewfinders in hand, as they discussed with Ms. Miller their plans for drawing. It was obvious that Ms. Miller’s classroom, no matter where it was located, was a place of self-discipline, motivation, and hard work. I give my highest recommendation to you on Melissa Miller’s behalf. She is already a well-seasoned teacher, and will be an asset to your school community. Having devoted over thirty-six of my life to teaching, I have known all kinds of teachers and their practices, and I can assure you that Melissa Miller isa wonderful investment in your students’ future. Please call or email at anytime for further information. Sincerely yours, Svan #1. Purcr Susan M, Dardar Retired Curriculum Coordinator for the Advanced Arts Education Program of Chicago Public Schools