Ryan A. Berry

538 Maple Avenue • Furlong, PA 18925 • 215-989-0977 • ryan.berry99@gmail.com

21 November 2013

Thomas Putin
Philadelphia Teaching Fellows
440 North Broad Street, Suite 222
Philadelphia, PA 19130-4015

Dear Mr. Putin:

I have had a calling to teach for as long as I can remember. During high school, I volunteered at a pre-school. After a few weeks, I was offered a position to work with after school students. I was a high school student, with no experience. During first week, one student was struggling with the concept of money. I pulled change from my pocket, got some candy, and began teaching. Every day, this student would “buy” candy with my money. A week later, this student came in smiling from ear to ear. She hastily ripped open her backpack and showed me a test with a perfect score. From that moment, I knew that I wanted to make a difference in the lives of children. Through the Philadelphia Teaching Fellowship, I believe that I can witness many more of these cherished moments.

While researching information about your prestigious program, I stumbled across two statistics: “Last year, just 58% of Philadelphia students graduated high school on time. Just 1 in 10 of our African American eighth graders is proficient in math.” These statistics shocked me. As I graduate with a degree in Mathematics from West Chester University, I want to help those who struggle with math. Children need leaders to encourage them to learn. I am a leader. I wholeheartedly believe in your mission to end a legacy of educational inequity. As a teaching fellow, I will work hard to inspire the youth of Philadelphia. They are our future. Failing to maximize their opportunities to attain knowledge and success is unacceptable.

I have developed my leadership skills through rigorous training as a cadet in Air Force ROTC. As Director of Training, I helped my trainees achieve a 97% graduation rate, while the national average was just 60%. Outside of the 10 hours a week of ROTC, I have worked a combined 30 hours between two jobs. As a pre-school aid, I facilitate classroom learning and motivate young children. As the general manager of Peace Valley Boat Rental, I train all staff members. I am also an efficient time manager. Even with 10 hours of ROTC and 30 hours of work weekly, I have achieved a 3.6 GPA.

If I became a Fellowship Member, I would pass on my leadership, and learn from those around me. I look forward to discussing my calling to teach with you in an interview. I can be reached at 215-989-0977 or ryan.berry99@gmail.com. Thank you.

Very Respectfully,

Ryan A. Berry