Character Reference Letter

Character reference letters are typically written by people who know an individual well and can attest to their character, integrity and other personal traits. These letters are often written on behalf of people seeking employment and they can be written by friends, co-workers, pastors or others but usually not relatives.

Sample:

This sample character reference letter is written by a local pastor on behalf of a member of his congregation who is seeking employment in the school system. She wishes to obtain a job as a paraprofessional, or teacher’s assistant, in a first grade classroom at an elementary school in the community.

Dear Dr. Everett:

I have had the privilege of working with Angela Jones for the past 12 years on many projects at ABC Community Church, and it is with great pleasure that I recommend her for a position as a paraprofessional at XYZ Elementary School. Angela and her husband, Mike, moved into the community 12 years ago when her husband was discharged from the United States Air Force and obtained a job as a commercial airline pilot. They immediately joined the church and became active working in the children’s ministries. Now they have two children of their own, but remain actively involved in church programs and activities.

Angela does most of her work at the church in the children’s department. She is the first grade Sunday School teacher and is loved and respected by her students and their parents. She is kind, patient and compassionate when dealing with the children, but still maintains a disciplined and orderly Sunday School classroom. Angela has boundless energy and is extremely creative. Her enthusiasm and animation when telling Bible stories keeps the children enthralled and the crafts she devises to go along with the weekly lessons are clever, easy to make and fun for the children. In addition, she manages to include learning activities in the Bible lessons such as simple math problems or spelling exercises.

My wife and I happen to live in the same neighborhood with Angela and her husband. They are wonderful neighbors always willing to help individuals in the community who are in need. Every Spring Angela and her husband host the neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt in their backyard. It is a well-organized, enjoyable event that all the children and parents look forward to attending each year. I know that Angela is actively involved in the Parent Teacher Association at XYZ Elementary School where her children and my children attend classes. She has taken on the responsibility of successfully coordinating the end of the year Field Day and picnic for the past three years.

It has been my honor to know and work with Angela and her husband, and I am confident that she has the experience, character and personality necessary to make an outstanding paraprofessional at XYZ Elementary School. The children and first grade teacher would be fortunate to have such a dedicated and enthusiastic person working in their classroom.

Warm Regards,

Adam Baker

Pastor Adam C. Baker

ABC Community Church