Tyler A.

Smith
3703 Marianna Trail, Des Moines, IA 50310
tylersmith5128@gmail.com/tyler.smith@drake.edu
515.230.1221

3/18/15
Ms. Traci Davis
425 East Ninth Street
Reno, NV 89512
Dear Ms. Davis,
Im writing you in response to the current opening you have for a
special education teacher. I discovered the position opening
through the Washoe County School District website. I believe that
I am suited for this teaching position because of my relevant
educational experience and my career history.
My thirst for education started when I was younger, growing up
the son of a high school teacher and coach. However, it wasnt
until after I returned from my deployment with the Iowa National
Guard did I truly hear the calling and redirect my career towards
teaching. During my time in the Army, I trained countless soldiers
on anything from basic military tasks to complex communication
equipment. Time and again, I gained satisfaction when a trainee
developed a better understanding of their skill while working with
me. To truly test my dedication to the teaching career, I utilized
the GI Bill and went back to school to work on my Masters
Education at Drake University. After completing all of the
practicum experiences and student teaching, I feel at home in the
classroom.
My career endeavors leading up to this point have all dealt with
educating someone in one way or another. Whether it was in the
military or any one of my past careers, I have always focused on
helping others learn. Because of these reasons I feel that I would
be a positive addition to your team within Washoe County School
District.
I would be happy to discuss the position with you any time. I can
be contacted at (515) 230-1221 or at tylersmith5128@gmail.com.
Thank you for your consideration.

Tyler A. Smith
3703 Marianna Trail, Des Moines, IA 50310
tylersmith5128@gmail.com/tyler.smith@drake.edu
515.230.1221

Sincerely,
Tyler Smith
Education
Drake University, Des Moines, IA
Master of Arts in Teaching, May 2015
Endorsement: Instructional Strategist 1 (5-12)
Simpson College, Indianola, IA
Bachelor of Fine Arts, May 2003

Student Teaching Experience

North High School, Des Moines, IA January 2015 Present
Student Teaching I co-teach three 9 th Grade Conceptual Physics courses with
the general education science teacher. Independently teach two self-contained
special education Conceptual Physics courses and an additional Learning
Enhancement class that contains 15 students with IEPs. I am responsible for coplanning instruction during teacher collaboration time and creating modifications
and accommodations of the curriculum for students with IEPs located in the selfcontained classes. I am an active participant in IEP meetings with staff, parents, and
students.

Practicum Teaching Experience

South East Polk High School, Altoona, IA Spring 2013
Practicum Teaching Logged over 40 hours in a co-teaching and selfcontained classroom setting. I worked with mentor teacher to assist student
learning in 9th Grade Language Arts and Algebra classes.
Waukee High School, Waukee, IA Fall 2012
Practicum Teaching Logged over 40 hours in a co-teaching and selfcontained classroom setting. I worked with individual students on reading and
writing probes and reviewed IEP goals to help differentiate instruction.

Professional Experience
The Soho Shop 2014-Present
Sales and Project Management Developed new business, catered to existing
clientele, and managed day to day sales and installation operations for the only

Tyler A. Smith
3703 Marianna Trail, Des Moines, IA 50310
tylersmith5128@gmail.com/tyler.smith@drake.edu
515.230.1221
Pinnacle Control4 dealer in the state. I worked to expand sales force by interviewing
and hiring new employees. While employed, I attained Control4 level 1 and level 2
programming status and I act as a technical advisor for current sales staff. Major job
duties consist of meeting custom home builders on site to discuss details of
products and installation, arranging time to meet with home owners, and other
customer service related issues.
AVI Systems Inc. 2008-2014
Installation Technician Worked on all phases of installation of audio,
video, presentation and telecommunication systems. Built, designed, and integrated
systems for clientele primarily located in educational, corporate and logistical fields
with little to no supervision. I worked with complex wiring diagrams, building
blueprints and other highly detailed documents. I acquired InfoComms CTS
(Certified Technology Specialist) designation, a highly regarded certification in the
commercial audio/video industry.
Iowa National Guard 2005-2013
25U1P Signal Support Systems Specialist - Completed required Basic
Training Course and Advanced Individual Training, graduating with honors. While
enlisted in the Army I attended U.S. Army Airborne School, Warrior Leader Course,
and completed multiple continuing education courses within my field of expertise. I
served in Afghanistan from 2010 2011. While deployed, I successfully managed
the installation, training, and commission of over 1.7 million dollars of new satellite
communication equipment used by NATO forces. I trained and tested US and foreign
soldiers on multiple communications platforms to include all different types of radio
and computer based tools. I have also received multiple awards and
commendations while serving in the Iowa National Guard.
Best Buy 2005-2008
Sales and Geek Squad Installation Completed ISF (Imaging Science
Foundation) Certified Calibration Certification, trained peer employees on
installation best practices and sales techniques. Installed and trained customers on
purchased home theater products. Used acquired technical expertise to lend advice
for in-home entertainment solutions.