1. Bellarmine University
2001 Newburg Rd.
Louisville, KY 40205
07/03/2012
To Whom It May Concern,
This is a letter of recommendation for Jennifer Dolphin. I had the privilege of supervising
Ms. Dolphin during her student teaching semester in Spring 2012. During this time I observed her
on numerous occasions, read her daily teaching reflections, and met with her in person often. For
these reasons I feel qualified to comment on her abilities as a middle school mathematics or science
teacher. Ms. Dolphin taught seventh grade math and sixth grade science during her student teaching
placement.
It was evident from the beginning that Ms. Dolphin was motivated, a “go-getter”, and a hard
worker. Over the course of both her mathematics and science placement, she grew more as a teacher
than any other student teacher I have ever supervised. She was the most reflective, and always
implemented the suggestions of the cooperating teacher and myself. She was grateful for any and all
feedback, and took constructive criticism extremely well – because she wanted to become a great
teacher.
With regards to Ms. Dolphin’s teaching style, she demonstrated a well-rounded set of skills
including content knowledge, pedagogical knowledge, and classroom management. As I observed
Ms. Dolphin, I watched her successfully use various types of instructional strategies including:
partner work, group work, guided practice, games, stations, direct instruction, and inquiry based
instruction. She effectively used numerous technologies including: internet graphics and engaging
video clips, document camera, PowerPoint, scientific calculators, and more.
Moreover, I was most impressed with Ms. Dolphin’s initiative to want to develop her
teaching skills. She continually engaged in professional reading, thought about the “big picture” of
teaching, and asked really good questions. I could tell she was truly thinking about what type of
teacher she wanted to be – rather than just going through the motions.
I recommend Ms. Dolphin for any middle school mathematics or science position. As with
all new teachers, she will need new teacher mentoring and support, but I believe she can be very
successful in a caring and effective school environment.
Sincerely,
Dr. Sarah B. Bush
Assistant Professor of Mathematics Education
Annsley Frazier Thornton School of Education
sbush@bellarmine.edu