November 25, 2015

To Whom It May Concern,

This letter is written in support of Ms. Brooke Hebrank, who is applying for a teaching position at
your school district. It is my pleasure to serve as Brookes University Student Teaching
Supervisor during the fall semester of the 2015-16 school year. The first half of Ms. Hebranks
student teaching experience was completed at Southmoreland Primary School in Kindergarten
where her cooperating teacher was Mrs. Wendy Sowinski. The second half of Brookes
experience was in sixth grade Learning Support setting under the direction of Mrs. Nicole
Pruchnic at Southmoreland Middle School.
Ms. Hebrank has done an exemplary job during her student teaching experience. The judgment
is based upon feedback from her cooperating teachers and my own observations and
conferencing with Brooke. In every observation during both experiences, Brookes students were
actively engaged in learning activities leading to the obtainment of the lessons objectives in a
nurturing, positive learning environment. Brooke was equally proficient with Kindergarten or sixth
grade students.
Ms. Hebranks lesson plans were always detailed reflecting a solid knowledge of her subject
material, an understanding of the students strengths and weaknesses and the appropriate
strategies to move students forward in their learning. Brooke varied her teaching strategies,
techniques and assignments to fit different learning styles, thus motivating her students and
providing the best pathway to their success. Brooke guided students with constant feedback
following formative assessments and was able to identify student needs then adapt and modify
her instruction as needed.
Brooke established a caring, nurturing, trusting atmosphere with her students that translated into
a classroom climate that motivated students and encouraged them to do their very best. She
effectively managed both instructional time and student behavior with clear expectations, effective
routines and thoughtful instruction. Her lessons effectively engaged students individually and in
small or large group formats. She was as effective with a one-on-one life skills lesson or a room
full of challenging kindergarten students.
Ms. Hebranks professionalism and willingness to grow have been reflected in her eagerness to
accept and implement all suggestions received from her cooperating teacher and university
supervisor. Brooke is a personable, intelligent and hard-working young lady who worked equally
well with her students and the schools faculty members during her student teaching experience.
She established herself as a valuable asset to both her kindergarten and sixth grade teaching
teams. As a former principal of twenty-five years I can say with confidence that Brooke is and will
continue to be an outstanding educator and an asset to any teaching staff. I do not hesitate in
giving her my highest recommendation for any teaching position in your district.
Sincerely,
Edward J Federinko
Edward J Federinko, D.Ed.
Student Teaching Supervisor
Seton Hill University