Periodically, teachers must take a leave of absence during the school year due to medical issues, maternity leave or family problems. When such issues arise, a letter requesting a leave of absence needs to be written. This letter provides notice to employers, so they have time to cover the temporarily vacant teaching position. A leave of absence letter is submitted to the school’s superintendent and principal.

Address the leave of absence letter to the school superintendent.

Begin the first sentence of the letter with the length of absence. For example, I am writing to request a leave of absence for seven weeks.

Include the starting and ending dates of the leave of absence in the second sentence. For example, my leave would start on September 12, 2011 and end on October 31, 2011.

Explain the reason for the absence in the next paragraph.

Clarify in the third paragraph if work, such as grading assignments or developing lesson plans, can be completed before or during the absence.

Explain if accrued hours, such as sick or vacation time, are being utilized during the leave.

Offer contact information during leave of absence. For example, I will be available through my cellphone at (555) 555-1212. Please contact me, if there are any concerns.

Type a closing statement granting the leave along with “Sincerely,” and a printed and signed signature.

Make three copies of the letter and forward a copy to the superintendent and one to the school principal.