Obviously my suggestion may not work for all places at all times, but I think my suggestion is pretty universal. Yes, a good cover letter and resume are enough. To be honest, principals hire teachers, and principals do not have enough time to look over a lot of paper work about new jobs. In my opinion, a cover letter is where you connect with principals personally, and a one-page resume is where you show off your experience. I highly suggest emailing principals directly with this information. I moved out to a new state two years ago and went through this same process. I emailed the principal. The email was the cover letter. I told the principal why I was moving and how I felt about his school and my experiences. I attached my resume to the email. I was hired shortly thereafter.

I feel that a new teacher interviewee should provide as much documentation as possible. I believe that in addition to having a resume, a portfolio is a great tool to show a teacher's strengths. At the college I am attending, we have critical assignments which we turn into our professional portfolio online. When it comes time to interview, I feel this portfolio will be beneficial towards my success because it helps present me in a professional and organized manner.

School districts that want more than a resume and cover letter usually specifically state exactly what it is that they would like to see. I would recommend reviewing hiring packets carefully to be sure you are well prepared with all necessary components.

Like with any other job you want to stand out. Anybody is capable to creating a good resume, but it doesn't show what you are capable of doing in the classroom. If you have a portfolio physical or electronic I would provide the employer with it. If they feel they don't need it then they don't need it, but it is always great to show them what you are capable of.

The thing is that a lesson portfolio will only work in certain schools because it is so catered to that school. So yes, a decent interview background and resume will be ok.

Yes, a resume is enough. A resume and cover letter should highlight your experience and talk about assignments you have completed with your class. Many administrators do not have time to look at additional paperwork. You need to be able to sell yourself with your resume and cover letter.