May 13, 2014

Mrs. Mary Vitulli

140 North Ave.
Highwood, IL 60040


To Whom It May Concern:

Emma Gustafson is currently a first year teacher at St. James School. She was hired to
teach in a unique teaching/learning environment, a multi-age third/fourth classroom.
Although this would be considered a challenge for any teacher, Emma attacked this
challenge with great enthusiasm and dedication. During my many classroom
walkthroughs this year, I then met with each teacher to discuss ways I could help them
and work together toward instructional improvements. Any recommendations that I
made to Emma were willingly and quickly put into practice. In addition, as the year has
moved forward, Emma has sought new and innovative ways to reach each student. Such
an example would be her morning stretch with Yoga and then the morning wake-up
questions of review.

Emma also has a real propensity and gift with technology. She helped me to produce my
website marketing video and my Christmas production video. She immediately began to
use the SMART board in her classroom without any instruction as well as the Student
Response System that accompanies the SMART board. Both of these tools provide
another vehicle for student learning and engagement.

Unfortunately, due to the economy and budget constraints I had to reduce my staff this
year and Im sad to say I could not offer a contract to Emma due to her years of
experience as opposed to others on my staff. Emma is in the beginning of her teaching
career with much potential. For this reason and more, I would highly recommend Emma
for a teaching position in your school.


Sincerely,
Mary Vitulli

Mary Vitulli
Principal