A resignation letter for a teacher is written by an individual in a teaching position to notify their employer that they no longer wish to hold their current employment.
The decision to resign from a teaching position may be due to several reasons- either good or bad, but the recommended practice should be to inform the schoolโs administration and then write an official letter of resignation. Besides, one may also need to write to the parents to inform them of leaving the school. Regardless of the circumstances behind the departure, one should keep this letter professional and respectful to the employer, and they should write the notice as early as possible to allow the educational institution enough time to find a new teacher or at the very least, a substitute tutor.
Free Templates and Examples
Pre-Writing Considerations
When writing it to the studentโs parents, the teacher is advised to write a professional and encouraging letter. However, when writing to the administration or the schoolโs principal, one will want to be more direct but equally professional and upbeat.
To write it effectively, consider the following pre-writing things:
Review the contract
When planning to resign from a teaching position, it is recommended that the teacher give adequate notice to the schoolโs administration to help them transition. Most employee handbooks and contracts stipulate how much notice one should give before exiting an organization. Therefore, before writing this letter, it is vital to check the employment contract to ascertain how much notice to give and select an appropriate date to allow a smooth transition.
Decide whether or not to include a departure explanation
While writing it, it is wise to note that providing a departure explanation is entirely optional. This means that one doesnโt have to include it unless the employer requires it.
However, some people may find it necessary to include a reason for leaving the organization. If one decides to include the departure explanation, one should provide a vague or general explanation. For example, one can state that they are leaving for personal reasons.
Writing a Teacher Resignation Letter
When writing it, you should remain positive and wish your coworkers, students, and parents the best in the future. You should also express optimism as you open a new chapter in your career. If youโre leaving because of some misunderstandings with the school administration, these sentiments should not appear in the letter.
Itโs also essential to mention your last day in school and how long youโve served as a teacher at the institution. If possible, you can specify the reason that has made you resign. Before submitting your letter, proofread and edit it to confirm it has no spelling or grammar mistakes. And finally, send your quitting notification in time to avoid disturbing the studentโs learning program.
To write it, consult the following step-by-step professional guide:
Step 1- Address the letter properly
The writerโs address should appear at the top of the letter. Provide the senderโs name and contact details, including the phone number and email address.
After providing the senderโs address, proceed to write the receiverโs address. One must know to whom to address the letter directly. Therefore, review the employee handbook or training manual and see if there are details of who needs to receive this letter or email. Typically, the receiver of it will be the schoolโs principal and the administration. To address this section adequately, include the receiverโs name, job title/position, and address, including the state, city, and zip code.
Step 2- Date the letter
Immediately after writing the receiverโs address, skip a single line and include the date the letter is written. It is important to note that the date of the letter should be current.
Step 3- Salutation and Introduction
Start the t letter with a salutation that is directed at the person who will receive it,
EXAMPLE
Dear Mr. George Washington. Doing this creates rapport, and it makes the letter seem more personalized to the reader.
After writing a formal salutation, include a brief introductory paragraph. In this section, state the intent to resign from the school, including the job title, and clearly state the effective date of the job resignation. Providing the exact date on which the teacher plans to exit the school is especially recommended if they leave the school in the middle of a school year or before the expiration of a contract.
Step 4- Body paragraphs
In the body paragraph, the sender of the letter should provide details of their final workday. To calculate it, consider the schoolโs policy on the resignation notice period and follow the notice policy for the latter to avoid being penalized or leaving the school on a bad note. In essence, one might need an employer reference letter from the school later on in life. Therefore, make sure to give as much notice as possible to allow the school to transition easily and efficiently.
The individual writing this letter can use the other body paragraph to include essential information. This section should be detailed, but it should be brief, concise, and maintain a positive tone. In this section, the writer can briefly discuss the following important information:
4.1 Mention a positive experience
No matter the circumstances behind the decision to resign from the school, one may want to mention that they had a great time working at the school and teaching the students. This is paramount because the letter of resignation will be on the record, and therefore professionalism is of the essence. Furthermore, one may require a recommendation letter from the school in the future, so maintaining good relationships is critical.
4.2 Add a thank you note
The writer it can thank the school principal or the administration for allowing them to work at the school and providing them with a conducive working environment. If the employer had provided some training and developmental opportunities for the teachers, the writer could also briefly mention that they are grateful for such learning opportunities.
4.3 Offer to help with the transition
When writing the letter or email, it is also recommended that one show their willingness to help with the transition. However, one should avoid promising things they know they might not be able to deliver. In this regard, one can indicate that they would be happy to ensure a smooth transition for the students and the replacement teacher after their departure.
4.4 Talk about the next goals
Its writer can end their body paragraphs by explaining what they intend to do after leaving the school. If they are resigning to pursue further studies, they can mention that in the letter. If the teacher intends to take a break from their career to attend to other personal matters, they can indicate it in the letter. However, if the teacher is leaving for another job, they should avoid including sensitive details about the next job.
EXAMPLE
Remuneration details.
Step 5- Close with a Sign-off
The writer can conclude by restating their appreciation and gratitude for the schoolโs administration and the principal and offer to remain in contact with the school in case they need any help transitioning.
Afterward, write a sign-off statement, provide the senderโs full legal name, and write the signature.
Template Resignation Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Principal’s Name]
[School’s Name]
[School’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Principal’s Name],
Subject: Resignation from the Position of [Your Position/Subject Taught]
I am writing this letter to formally notify you of my resignation from my position as [Your Position/Subject Taught] at [School’s Name], effective [Last Working Day, typically at least two weeks from the date of the letter]. This decision was made after thorough consideration of my career aspirations and personal circumstances.
While it is difficult to leave my position, I believe this decision aligns with my long-term career goals and personal growth. I am immensely grateful for the opportunities for professional development and the supportive work environment I have enjoyed at [School’s Name].
During my time here, I have been fortunate to work with an exceptional team of educators and inspiring students. The experiences and knowledge I have gained have been invaluable, and I am deeply thankful for the support and encouragement from my colleagues and the administration.
To ensure a smooth transition, I am committed to assisting in any way possible, including helping to find and train my replacement. I will make sure that all my responsibilities are up to date and will provide thorough documentation of my work to facilitate the handover process.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to be a part of the [School’s Name] community. I am hopeful that our paths will cross again in the future, and I look forward to staying in touch. Please let me know if there are any specific procedures I should follow during my resignation process.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to contribute to [School’s Name]. I leave with fond memories and valuable experiences that I will cherish in my next chapter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Position/Subject Taught]
Teacher Resignation Letter Samples
Sample 01
Dear Mr. Smith,
Subject: Resignation from My Position as Third Grade Teacher
I am writing to formally resign from my position as a Third Grade Teacher at Anytown Elementary School, effective April 14, 20XX. This decision comes after much deliberation and is due to my family’s upcoming relocation to another state, a move that presents new opportunities and challenges for us.
It has been an absolute privilege to be part of the Anytown Elementary community for the past five years. The support and camaraderie among the staff have been unparalleled, and the enthusiasm and curiosity of the students have made every day profoundly rewarding.
I am committed to making this transition as seamless as possible. I will complete all pending assessments and ensure that my replacement will have a clear understanding of where students are in their curriculum. Additionally, I am more than willing to assist in the search for and training of my successor.
I cannot express enough gratitude for the opportunities for growth and professional development that I have experienced at Anytown Elementary. I will carry forward the lessons learned and memories made here into my next chapter.
Thank you for your understanding and support regarding my decision to resign. I look forward to staying in touch and hope to cross paths again in the future.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Third Grade Teacher
Sample 02
Dear Mrs. Bell,
Subject: Resignation from My Position as Mathematics Teacher
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position as a Mathematics Teacher at Cityville High School, with my last day being April 14, 20XX. After much thought, I have decided to step down due to personal reasons that require my full attention at this time.
The years I have spent at Cityville High have been incredibly fulfilling. I am grateful for the supportive environment that has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. Teaching and learning alongside my students has been a highlight of my career.
To ensure a smooth transition, I will organize my teaching materials and provide detailed notes on student progress and curriculum plans. I am also available to help with selecting and training my replacement to ensure continuity for our students.
I would like to thank you, the faculty, and the students for a memorable and rewarding tenure at Cityville High. I am hopeful that we will stay in contact, and I look forward to seeing the continued success of the school.
Thank you for your understanding and support during this period of transition.
Sincerely,
Michael Johnson
Mathematics Teacher
Sample 03
Dear Dr. Gale,
Subject: Resignation from My Position as Science Teacher
Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from my position as a Science Teacher at Smalltown Middle School, effective May 15, 20XX. I have made the difficult decision to resign in order to pursue a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science, a step towards fulfilling my long-term career objectives in educational research.
Working at Smalltown Middle has been an incredibly enriching experience. The school’s commitment to fostering a love for learning and critical thinking in students has deeply resonated with me, and I am proud to have been part of such a dedicated team of educators.
In preparation for my departure, I will ensure that all lesson plans, grades, and reports are up-to-date. I am also willing to work closely with my successor to provide a comprehensive handover and to share insights that may assist in their transition.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the Smalltown Middle School community. I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I will gain from my studies to contribute further to the field of education in the future.
Thank you for your understanding and support. I hope to keep in touch and perhaps collaborate on educational initiatives in the future.
Sincerely,
Emily Thompson
Science Teacher
Sample 04
Subject: Resignation Effective June 30, 20XX – Alex Rivera, History Teacher
Dear Principal Martinez,
I hope this message finds you well. After much consideration and with a heavy heart, I am writing to formally submit my resignation from my position as a History Teacher at Springfield High School, effective June 30, 20XX. This decision has not been easy, but due to personal reasons that necessitate a change in my current circumstances, I believe it is the best choice for my family and me at this time.
Over the past six years at Springfield High, I have had the privilege of working with an exceptional group of educators and staff. The support and collaboration I’ve experienced here have been unparalleled, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities for professional growth and development that I have been afforded. Teaching the students of Springfield High has been a profoundly rewarding experience, and I will miss them greatly. Their curiosity, insight, and enthusiasm for learning have inspired me every day, and I am proud of the work we have accomplished together.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and minimizing any disruption to the students’ learning experience. To this end, I will complete all pending grading, prepare detailed handover notes, and assist in any way I can to find and train my replacement. I am also available to discuss the best ways I can support the department and the school during this transition period.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to you, the administration, and the entire teaching staff for the support and camaraderie during my tenure. Springfield High School is a remarkable community, and though I am moving on, I will always cherish the memories and experiences I have had here.
Please let me know the next steps in the resignation process and any paperwork or further actions required on my part. I look forward to staying in touch and hope to cross paths again in the future.
Thank you once again for everything. It has truly been an honor to be part of the Springfield High School family.
Warmest regards,
Alex Rivera
History Teacher
Springfield High School
alex.rivera@email.com
555-123-4567
Tips For Writing a Teacher Resignation Letter
While there are several reasons for resigning from a current teaching post, it is always essential to remain positive and professional throughout your letter.
Here are some tips to ensure the intention to resign is communicated clearly and professionally:
Be concise
It should be brief and straightforward. The only essential information to include is the senderโs contact information, the intent to resign, and the effective resignation date. Any additional information should be communicated carefully to avoid โburning bridgesโ that may be essential for oneโs career in the future.
Give enough notice
Giving adequate notice before resigning from work is always highly advisable. This ensures that the school has enough time to prepare adequately for oneโs departure, and it generally demonstrates professionalism.
Demonstrate professionalism
Regardless of the circumstances for leaving the school, one should show professionalism by maintaining an upbeat tone and mentioning a positive experience while teaching at the school. Whereas it might be tempting to include negative expressions in the letter, one should refrain from doing so to remain in โgood booksโ with the employer.
Avoid using improper language
Despite the relationship between the resigning teacher and the recipient of the teacher resignation letter, one should not use improper language while composing the letter. Keep in mind that this letter will be documented; thus, the addressee wonโt be the only one reading it.
Consider the timing
If an individual plans to resign from their current employment, it is always wise to consider the timing and avoid leaving during the school year as much as possible. Remember that resigning from a teaching job mid-year could look bad to future employers, and consider that finding a suitable replacement in the middle of a school year could also be very difficult for the current employer.
note
Make final payment arrangements with the relevant department.
Instead of including details about the final paycheck, the writer should discuss these with the relevant department rather than including them in the resignation letter.
Request to schedule an exit interview
Suppose the individual resigning from a teaching post has any constructive criticism that they feel they should share. In that case, they can request to have an exit interview with the superintendent or the administration to discuss the matters in detail instead of writing them in the letter.
Proofread
It is a formal document, and like any other formal document, grammatical and spelling errors are unacceptable. Therefore, before forwarding the letter to the recipient, consider proofreading it or asking other objective individuals to review it as they might detect mistakes that the writer missed.
Conclusion
When quitting a teaching position, it is always best to inform the schoolโs administration and parents about leaving by writing them a positive and professional resignation letter or email. Whereas writing it can be challenging as it requires tact and consideration, one must find a way to compose the letter professionally as it will set the tone for the teacherโs final weeks at the school and their relationship with the school moving forward.