Teacher Resignation Letter (With Examples)

Resigning from a teaching position can be particularly challenging, as it often feels like leaving behind a family of students.

If you’ve made the tough decision to resign, this guide will walk you through crafting a professional resignation letter, outlining what to include, and providing templates and examples.

Key Takeaways:

• Identify the recipient of your letter, clearly state your intention, and decide whether to include a reason for your departure.

• Before submitting your letter, discuss your decision with your supervisor and provide ample notice.

• Consider informing your students’ parents about your departure, but consult with your supervisor first.

How to Write a Resignation Letter as a Teacher

Here are the essential steps to follow when drafting your resignation letter:

1. Determine the appropriate recipient. Typically, this will be your principal or another administrator. Check your employee handbook or confirm directly with your principal.

2. Begin with a formal salutation. Use “Dear” followed by the recipient’s full name or title, rather than informal greetings like “Hi” or “Hello.” For instance, “Dear Principal Goldblum” or “Dear Ms. Mayne.”

3. State your intention clearly. The first line should communicate your purpose: “I am writing to inform you that I will be resigning from my position as Kindergarten teacher, effective [Last Day Date].”

4. Decide whether to provide an explanation for your departure. This is optional; if your situation is sensitive, it may be best to keep it brief. If you choose to share, keep it general and positive.

5. Express gratitude. Acknowledge what you gained from your experience at the school and how it has contributed to your professional growth.

6. Outline next steps. Mention how you will support the transition, whether by wrapping up the semester or assisting in training your replacement. Include your contact information if necessary.

7. Close with a professional sign-off. Use “Sincerely” or “Thank you,” followed by your name. If it’s a printed letter, sign it; if sending via email, include your contact details in your signature.

When writing to parents, maintain a conversational tone while including the same essential information.

What to Include in a Teacher Resignation Letter

Your resignation letter to school officials should be formal and include critical details:

1. Clearly state your last working day. This serves as an official record of your departure. Refer to your contract for notice requirements and choose a date that facilitates a smooth transition.

2. Include your job title. This helps clarify which position you are resigning from, ensuring no confusion arises.

3. Add a positive note. Even if your experience was challenging, thank them for the opportunity to work there and share specific lessons learned if applicable.

4. Offer assistance during the transition. Whether training your successor or providing guidance, showing your willingness to help can leave a lasting positive impression.

Teacher Resignation Letter Templates

Below is a simple template for your resignation letter:

1. Teacher Resignation Letter Template

   [Your Name]
   [Your Work Address]

   [Date of Letter]

   [Recipient’s Name]
   [Recipient’s Title]
   [School/District Name]
   [Recipient’s Work Address]

   Dear [Insert Name],

   Please accept my resignation from my position as [Your Job Title]. My last day will be [Last Day Date].

   I have greatly enjoyed working at [School’s Name]. Thank you for the professional growth opportunities and the support you’ve provided.

   Please let me know how I can assist during this transition. I can be reached at [Phone Number] or [Email].
   Sincerely,

   [Your Signature]

   [Your Typed Name]

2. Teacher Resignation Email Template

   While similar to a hard copy, here’s an email template:

   Teacher Resignation Email Template

   Subject: [Your Name] — Resignation

   Dear [Insert Name],

   I am writing to resign from my position as [Your Job Title]. My last day will be [Last Day Date].

   I have enjoyed my time at [School’s Name] and appreciate the support received during my tenure.

   Please let me know how I can help ease this transition.

   Sincerely,

   [Your Name]

   [Your Phone Number]
   [Your Email Address]

Teacher Resignation Letter Examples

Here are some examples of resignation letters to guide you:

1. Teacher Resignation Letter for a New Job

   Dora Harding
   2222 S Western Ave.
   Denver, CO 80105

   May 3, 2026

   Justin Krohn
   Principal
   Denver West Elementary School
   2222 S Western Ave.
   Denver, CO 80105

   Dear Principal Krohn,

   Please accept my resignation from my position as a first-grade teacher at Denver West Elementary. My last day will be May 31, 2026.

   I have decided to pursue my goal of becoming a college professor, which necessitates full-time classes.

   I truly appreciate the support and opportunities for growth provided by you and the administration during my time here. I’ve learned invaluable lessons that I will carry with me in my career.

   I will ensure that my responsibilities are completed before my departure and am happy to assist in training my successor. Please feel free to reach me at 303-577-3299 or doraharding@gmail.com.

   Wishing you and the school continued success.

   Sincerely,

   Dora Harding [handwritten signature]

   Dora Harding

2. Teacher Resignation Letter for Relocation

   Subject: Steve Holt — Resignation

   Dear Ms. Williams,

   I am writing to inform you that I will be resigning from my position as an eighth-grade English teacher at Wichita Middle School, effective December 20, 2026.

   My family is relocating to Chicago due to my wife’s job offer.

   Thank you for the opportunity to grow as an educator at Wichita Middle School. I have enjoyed collaborating with you and the team and have learned greatly from our interactions.

   I aim to ensure a smooth transition by training my replacement and will finalize all necessary preparations. If you need anything else from me, please let me know.

   Thank you,

   Steve Holt

   333-222-4444
   steveh@email.com

Writing a Resignation Letter to Your Students’ Parents

If leaving mid-year, consider informing parents of your resignation. Verify with administration to set the appropriate timing for this communication.

Here’s a sample letter:

What to Include in a Teacher Resignation Letter for Parents

If you decide to write to parents, ensure the tone is friendly and informative:

1. Highlight positive teaching experiences. Maintain a good rapport with parents, as this reflects positively on you and the school.

2. Share the positives of the transition. If a replacement is known, introduce them positively to reassure parents about their child’s future.

3. Invite questions. Providing your contact details encourages parents to reach out with any concerns during the transition.

Teacher Resignation Letter Tips

• Discuss your resignation beforehand. It’s advisable to inform your principal in person before submitting the letter. This can foster a more respectful environment.

• Keep the reason brief. If you choose to include a reason for your departure, keep it succinct and avoid unnecessary details.

• Plan your timing. If possible, align your resignation with the end of a semester or term for a smoother transition.

• Provide ample notice. Especially mid-year, giving more than the standard two weeks notice is appreciated.

• Handle administrative matters separately. Discuss benefits and final pay with HR, keeping your resignation letter focused on your departure.

• Maintain a positive tone. Focus on the positive aspects of your experience and express gratitude to avoid burning bridges.

Teacher Letter of Resignation FAQ

1. How do you tell your principal you are resigning?

   Have a face-to-face conversation with your principal and follow it up with a formal resignation letter.

   Be vague if necessary about your reasons, but always express gratitude and your willingness to facilitate a smooth transition.

2. How do I resign gracefully from a teaching job?

   To resign gracefully, give as much notice as possible, facilitate a smooth transition, and express your appreciation to colleagues and administrators.

   Consider timing; resigning at the end of a semester is preferable to mid-year for ease of hiring a replacement.

References

1. Northeastern University Career Services — Resignation Letter Sample

Author

Abby McCain

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.