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How to Write Your School Initiation Email: A Candidate Guide

Your first email to a potential placement school sets the tone for the entire relationship. A professional, well-crafted message shows the school you're serious, prepared, and genuinely interested in their community. This guide walks you through exactly what to include — and provides a sample email you can adapt.

Before You Write

Make sure you have the following ready before drafting your email:

  • The name and email address of your school contact (Principal, Head of School, Assistant Principal, or HR/District representative)

  • Your certification area (e.g., Elementary Education 1–6, Secondary English 7–12)

  • The dates of your Clinical Practice (your Module 8 / ED 508 timeframe)

  • Your resume (optional, but recommended if you have relevant experience)

  • Your Candidate Introduction Letter (request this from your Program Advisor)

Step 1: Open with a Warm, Professional Introduction

Start by introducing yourself by name and thanking the recipient in advance for their time and consideration. A simple, genuine opening goes a long way in making a good first impression.

"My name is [Your Name], and I am reaching out to express my interest in completing my Clinical Practice at [School Name]. Thank you in advance for your time and for considering this opportunity."

Step 2: Explain Your Program

Let the school know who you are as a student and why you're reaching out. Mention Moreland University and the TEACH-NOW Teacher Certification Preparation program by name so the school has context for your request.

"I am currently enrolled in Moreland University's TEACH-NOW Teacher Certification Preparation program. As part of my program, I am required to complete a 12-week Clinical Practice in a school setting, and after researching schools in the area, I am particularly drawn to [School Name] and would love the opportunity to complete my practicum there."

Step 3: Share Your Background (If Applicable)

If you have teaching experience, relevant work history, or a resume to share, briefly highlight it here and attach the document to your email. Keep this section short — two to three sentences is plenty.

"I have [X years] of experience working in [relevant role/field], and I have attached my resume for your reference. I am passionate about [subject area/grade level] and am eager to bring that enthusiasm into the classroom."

If you don't have prior experience, simply skip this section or mention your enthusiasm for learning and growing in a school environment.

Step 4: State Your Certification Area and Dates

Be specific. Schools need to know what subject area and grade level you'll be working in, and when you'll need to be there. This helps them determine whether they have a suitable classroom and mentor available.

"I am seeking certification in [Certification Area], and my Clinical Practice is scheduled to take place from [Start Date] to [End Date]."

Step 5: Loop in Moreland's Clinical Team

CC the Moreland Clinical Team on your email and let the school know they're included. This gives the school a direct point of contact if they have questions about the program, and signals that you have institutional support behind you.

CC: clinical@moreland.edu

"I have also included Moreland University's Clinical Team (clinical@moreland.edu) in this email. Should you have any questions about the program or would like additional information about Clinical Practice, they are happy to assist and will connect you with the appropriate team member."

Sample Email Template

Use this as a starting point and personalize it with your own details:

Subject: Clinical Practice Placement Inquiry – [Your Name] | [Certification Area]

Dear [Contact Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I am reaching out to express my sincere interest in completing my Clinical Practice at [School Name]. Thank you in advance for your time and for considering this opportunity.

I am currently enrolled in Moreland University's TEACH-NOW Teacher Certification Preparation program. As part of my program requirements, I am completing a 12-week Clinical Practice in a school setting. After researching schools in the area, I was drawn to [School Name] and would be honored to complete my practicum within your community.

[Optional: I have [X years] of experience in [relevant role/field] and have attached my resume for your review.]

I am seeking certification in [Certification Area], and my Clinical Practice is scheduled from [Start Date] to [End Date].

I have also included Moreland University's Clinical Team (clinical@moreland.edu) in this email. If you have any questions about the program or would like additional details about Clinical Practice, they will be happy to assist and connect you with the appropriate team member.

I would welcome the chance to speak further about this opportunity. Please feel free to reach me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Warm regards,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

A Few Final Tips

  • Personalize each email. If you're contacting multiple schools, adjust the school name and any specific details — a generic email is easy to spot.

  • Attach your Candidate Introduction Letter. Request this from your Program Advisor and include it alongside your resume.

  • Follow up. If you haven't heard back within one to two weeks, it's appropriate to send a brief, polite follow-up email.

  • Keep a record. Track which schools you've contacted, the date you reached out, and any responses using the contact log from the Securing a Clinical Placement Site guide.

Need help crafting your email or obtaining your Candidate Introduction Letter? Reach out to your Program Advisor — they're here to help.