An important part of preparing for the job search in K-12 education is compiling letters of recommendation from your in-classroom experiences as school district applications generally require them. EPCS offers a convenient, cost effective credential service through the EPCS Job Search Account.

• How it Works
• Considerations in Obtaining Reference Letters
• Tips for Letter Writers
• Recommended Procedures for Obtaining Reference Letters

 

Here's how it works:

• Students store their letters of recommendation with EPCS.
  • Keep track of letters on file, by simply checking the on-line list through your EPCS On-line account. Letters may be sent to EPCS at any time and will be kept on file until you are ready to open a Job Search Account.
  • It is generally advisable to request a recommendation from your cooperating teacher and/or supervisor near the end of the teaching experience.
• When you are ready to start your job search, you open a Job Search Account with EPCS, which includes creating a UW-Madison credential. The credential includes copies of your resume, university transcripts, and authentic references, key components of most applications. "Authentic references" means that letters come directly from the writer to EPCS and are then sent directly to the school district.

• To maintain credibility, EPCS accepts only the ORIGINAL signed reference letter. Letters should be mailed directly to EPCS. You can review the letter at EPCS at anytime and/or request a campus copy for your files. Letters that have been submitted to EPCS become the property of the UW-Madison, and the originals may not be removed. Waiver of Right to Review - Confidential Letters: Though used infrequently since enactment of FERPA in 1974, "confidential" letters can be obtained. To read more, click here.

  When you apply to school districts you notify EPCS by completing an on-line credential request. EPCS will send your credential to the district.
  
  This is a powerful, time saving tool for candidates, letter writers, and employers.

 

 

What to Consider in Obtaining Reference Letters:

Reference letters are a key component in educational applications. Here are some items to consider when seeking reference letters:

• They should be obtained only from persons who can evaluate your teaching or administrative potential and performance or your scholarship abilities. Character references and letters relating to your pre-college years are not included in the Professional Credential.
• References submitted to this office may be used only for employment purposes and admission to graduate school.
• Once references have been submitted to our office, they become the property of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the originals may not be removed from our office.
• Although three to six professional references are most common, quality of references rather than quantity should be stressed. The number will vary according to your academic background and experience. Beginning teachers might have three or four, while those with several years experience could have up to a maximum of ten.

Return to top

Recommended procedures for obtaining reference letters for your credential:

1. Download Reference Forms: For the UW-Madison credential, reference letter writers have the option of using their own school letterhead OR using a form from EPCS: - .PDF version (print hard copy of form, non-editable) - Microsoft Word version (open form in Microsoft Word and fill-in)

   Letter writers should prepare letters using their own school letterhead. They may also use EPCS reference letter forms (see box right).
   
   
2. Select individuals you think would know the most about your teaching ability and your potential as a teacher. such as, a cooperating teacher and University supervisor.
   
3. Contact the individuals you have selected.
   1. Make an appointment with each person and make a personal request for her or his recommendation.
   2. Provide the letter writer with the reference letter form (as it has mailing information). FILL IN YOUR NAME AND MAJOR AT THE TOP OF THE FORM, and GIVE IT TO THE REFERENCE WRITER, WITH A STAMPED ENVELOPE ADDRESSED TO EPCS.
   3. Provide all of the people you ask for recommendations with a brief summary/resume (verbally or written) of your aims and goals. Allow a reasonable time period for the recommendation to be completed. (for letter writers).
   4. Reference letters should be sent directly to EPCS. They become the property of UW-Madison. You can review all letters in your file, and receive "campus copies" if you choose.
   5. Keep track of reference letters on file by checking your EPCS On-Line account.
4. It is generally advisable to make the request for a recommendation from your cooperating teacher and University supervisor near the conclusion of the student-teaching experience.
5. EPCS will accept signed originals only.
6. WE STRONGLY SUGGEST THAT YOU REVIEW ALL LETTERS IN YOUR CREDENTIAL.

   Return to top