April 8, 2016

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing this letter in support of Brien Behlings application for employment and can
speak to his academic and teaching skills. I was Mr. Behlings instructor for two courses as
well as his advisor.
As a student Mr. Behling is attentive, diligent, conscientious, and well organized. His work is
always complete, well proofed, and thoughtful, and contains high expectations for himself
that go well beyond assigned minimum requirements. While student teaching, his lesson
plans were complete and sent to his student teaching supervisor in a timely manner. More
importantly, when he does struggle he perseveres and summons a resourcefulness that is,
sadly, a rarity in most students today.
Mr. Behling is also prepared to be a teaching professional. He has demonstrated his collegial
value through respectful interactions, consistent contributions, and a genuine ability to listen
to and be interested in what his colleagues have to say. His relationship with his mentor
teacher for student teaching was professional and he was proactive in asking questions,
offering ideas, and providing solutions. He possesses an enthusiasm for intellectual inquiry
that also contains a depth of thought that he brings with him to the classroom. Mr. Behling is
also observant and especially attuned to the tone and climate of his environment and is able
to make prudent choices and adaptations as a result.
In the classroom, Mr. Behling is confident, engages students in thoughtful conversation, and
establishes the primacy of intellectual growth goals. He demonstrates creativity in his lessons,
is always prepared for class, and maintains a solid understanding of classroom management.
He also has a sense of humor that allows him to establish connections with students.
Moreover, Mr. Behling possesses the crucial capacity to take direction, criticism, and
suggestion and transform it into improved teaching practice. In short, he is highly coachable,
and as such will find his first year, though challenging as it is for all, much less so.
Mr. Behlings combination of academic, professional, and teaching skills are easily placed in
the top 10% of students that I have had at Drake University. I recommend without reservation
his application for employment in your school.
Sincerely,

Matthew Hayden
Assistant Professor
Drake University

Drake University School of Education 3206 University Ave. Des Moines, IA 50311 515-271-3040 matthew.hayden@drake.edu