Reference Letters

[julie33]

I have two questions about reference letters:

1) Where I am teaching now in Canada, they have moved from using the title "Department Head" to "Curricular Leader" and "Assistant Curricular Leader". At my current school there are only "Assistant Curricular Leaders". (The history is long and boring, so I will spare you.) Essentially, all the Assistant Curricular Leaders have the same responsibilities as Department Heads, it's just a different title. I had my ACL write me a reference letter but when she signs with her title (Assistant Curricular Leader), I'm worried that her position will not be understood or that it will look like I couldn't get a reference from a "real" Head so I asked the "assistant" Head. Would it be perceived this way from an International School viewpoint? She is open to changing the title so that at least schools will understand what her responsibilities are...

2) How specific is a good reference letter when they're talking about your skills and experience? Any examples would be great so that I'm clear.

Thanks in advance!

[PsyGuy]

Since your HOD said she has no problem changing the title just have her change it. Sadly you might never get a chance to explain your supervisors role, and youd hate to miss out on an opportunity over a misunderstanding. If its an integrity issue you can write it

Jane Doe
Assistant Curricular Leader, (Head/Chair of <Department Name>)

Reference letters are important. What they what they are looking for more then are you a good teacher (they already know this) is are you a good employee... Are you organized, prepared, get along and work well with others, do you go the extra mile, etc.