School of Education, Leadership, & Public Service

1401 Presque Isle Avenue

Marquette, MI 49855-5350
906 227-2728
Fax: 906 227-2764
Web site: http://www.nmu.edu/education/

May 11, 2023

To Whom It May Concern,

I am pleased to recommend Jitte Okagbare for a special education teaching position in

your school district. I am certain that she will be a great addition to your teaching staff.

In my social studies teaching class at NMU, Jitte’s insights and reflections on the course
material, as well as the connections she made to the field experiences in local
elementary and middle school classrooms, revealed that she understands both the
challenges and rewards of the teaching profession, particularly as it relates to students
with special needs. She was able to take whatever we were studying in the course and
apply it to the classroom – in essence, bridging theory and practice.

Having observed her teaching multiple lessons, I became increasingly impressed with
her growth mindset, positive attitude, and commitment to helping all kids learn. Her
lessons were student-centered, required critical thinking and collaboration, and
connected to her students’ present and future lives. In addition, her lessons were
completely aligned with state and national standards.

I am happy to recommend Jitte Okagbare for a teaching position in your district. She is
dedicated, open-minded, and compassionate. Please do not hesitate to contact me for
more information.

Sincerely,

Derek Anderson (E-signature. Contact me if you have any questions)

Dr. Derek L. Anderson | Professor | School of Education - Whitman 213

Northern Michigan University | 1401 Presque Isle Ave. | Marquette, MI | 49855
(906) 227-1873 Office | (906) 227-2764 Fax | (906) 362-8979 Mobile
dereande@nmu.edu