Office of Field Experiences 1430 E.

Second Street
College of Education P.O. Box 210069
Tucson, AZ 85721-0069
520-621-5905

March 20, 2018

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my pleasure to write this letter of reference regarding Stephanie Engel, currently a University of Arizona
teacher candidate, teaching first grade at Howell Elementary School in the Tucson Unified School District.

I have enjoyed working with Stephanie and watching her develop into a very effective teacher. She began the
semester assuming responsibilities that allowed her to interact with the students, participate in classroom
routines, and help supervise students. As time progressed, Stephanie has assumed greater responsibility for
instruction by co-planning and executing lesson plans in all content areas. She has attended staff meetings, she
assisted with parent conferences, supervised field trips, and has assumed team-teaching responsibilities.

Ms. Engel has developed a positive relationship with her mentor teacher, Mrs. Selby. She works alongside her,
using data to ensure students’ needs are met. Whether Stephanie is doing math, language arts, or reading, she
is developing questioning techniques and strategies to assure that students are actively engaged. Stephanie has
technology skills, and incorporates them into her lessons, especially when modeling steps using manipulatives,
or leading the students through guided practice. Stephanie is thoughtful about her lessons and student success.

Stephanie is very open to constructive criticism and quickly implements suggestions into her lessons. It is
obvious that she reflects on her class management skills and lessons, then refines them. She has even taken the
initiative to discuss with her mentor teacher new approaches for the Daily Five Reading routine to encourage
greater time on task, student learning, and student responsibility.

Lesson design and delivery is an area that Stephanie has taken some risks for her observations. She understands
the importance of hands-on learning and student interaction. Ms. Engel promotes discourse and interactions
that are supportive and respectful. She has worked on strategies to accommodate learner needs including her
multilingual students. The classroom is pleasant, safe and supportive for her students.

Ms. Engel is very professional in all aspects. She is on time to school, dresses professionally, and has a warm
presence with the students, the families, and the staff. Stephanie has the skills, work ethic, and passion to teach.
And, with time and continued professional training, she will continue to grow professionally. Your district will be
quite fortunate to have Stephanie as a faculty member. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Julia Wharton
Supervisor University of Arizona
Jkwharto@email.arizona.edu
520-490-8162

Arizona’s First University – Established 1885

Arizona’s First University – Established 1885
Arizona’s First University – Established 1885