wl UNIVERSITY °F UTAH URBAN INSTITUTE FOR TEACHER EDUCATION Colege of Education, 1721 Campus Canter Drive rn 2360 Salt Lake Cy, tah 24112 801.581.7158 FAX 8015813609 wuwateutahedy February 25, 2015 Re: Steven Thomas ‘To Whom It May Concern: Steven Thomas was a student in the Teacher Preparation program at the Urban Institute for Teacher Education (UITE), at the University of Utah. | have been one of Steven's supervisors during his student teaching experience Steven was assigned to a third grade classroom at Fox Hills Elementary in Granite School District. From the beginning of the school year, Steven has shown a natural ability to create a positive learning environment. Whenever I have spent time in Steven’s class, his energy and enthusiasm have been contagious. His personal connection to his students has contributed to the effectiveness of his classroom management. His students understand and respect the expectations he has established, Steven's lesson include a variety of methods and materials which promote a high level of student participation. He is able to create experiences which promote better understanding of the concepts he is teaching. His lesson plans are well designed and well executed. Ithas been a pleasure working with Steven. He is committed to constantly improving his teaching skills. He is eager to listen and to discuss any new strategy that might support his students’ learning. As a teacher, he is conscientious, responsible and professional. | am confident that Steven will be a valuable asset as a teacher, team member and colleague. I highly recommend Steven for any teaching position. He has already demonstrated the skills and the commitment to be a successful faculty member. Sincerely yours, / ¥ Pitta. Xirkiv Kittie Linehan Cohort Supervisor