April 10, 2023

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my pleasure to write this reference letter for Samantha Eselby for secondary science
teaching positions. Ms. Eselby participated in a field-based teacher preparation program in 2022-
2023 at The Pennsylvania State University as a student teacher. As part of this program, I served
as one of her university supervisors and conducted weekly seminars. During this time, I formally
observed her on nine occasions. In addition, I reviewed her lesson plans, portfolios, and
reflective journals.

Within the professional development school context, Ms. Eselby worked closely with her mentor
teacher to develop lessons, laboratory investigations, and assessments. She developed a 7th-grade
unit plan on ecology that involved a variety of assessment types, interactive online simulations,
inquiry, collaborative learning, and analysis of student growth.

Throughout the year, Ms. Eselby continued to progress, adding teaching techniques and skills. I
observed her lesson in which her students identified the living and nonliving components of an
ecosystem that had a well-planned and thorough presentation with illustrations, diagrams, real-
world examples, and formative assessments.

Ms. Eselby is an excellent beginning teacher. She plans instructions that are engaging and
developmentally appropriate, uses a variety of strategies, and effectively manages classroom
routines and student behavior. She is a knowledgeable, articulate communicator and has a style
that shows her dedication to reach all students.

During my post-observation conferences with Ms. Eselby, she is reflective and demonstrates her
willingness to improve. She fulfills all responsibilities, works well with colleagues, and conducts
herself with integrity.

Samantha Eselby has the intelligence, skills, and professionalism to be a successful first-year
teacher. I gladly give her my highest recommendation.

Norma Holowach, M.Ed.

Student Teacher Supervisor
The Pennsylvania State University
170 Chambers Building
University Park, PA  16802
330-727-2483