To Whom It May Concern: I would like to give my highest possible recommendation for Michael Meyering, a gifted teacher leader and aspiring administrator with whom I work in my role as professor and faculty advisor in the Educational Leadership program at Drake University. Michael is a visionary, energetic and skilled educator, one who is passionate about school reform, establishes positive connections throughout the community and advocates strongly for safe, student-centered school environments. I would characterize Mike as being among the highest potential aspiring administrators in his field. In addition to working at an impressive level of effectiveness in both the professional educator and leadership standards, he is using his extensive knowledge and experience with instructional technology to become a valuable change agent. In addition to leading and consulting on 1:1 iPad initiatives, he has been heavily involved with leadership and professional development efforts with the Iowa Core, data and school improvement teams, and important parent and community engagement processes. Further, Mike has consistently exhibited a willingness to work extremely hard and an aptitude for effective planning and organization. He has established excellent rapport with his professional colleagues, as well as inspiring compassion and ability to interact positively with students and families. He also happens to be one of the most intelligent and ethical individuals with whom I have been associated in my current role. I have truly appreciated professional conversations that I have had with Mike; they are classic examples of how much we as educators can often learn from our students.

Finally, Michael has examined and is well prepared to address the many challenges currently facing our schools. I am certain that his many professional competencies, his data and inquiry-based approach and his outstanding communication skills will make him a highly valued school administrator. Simply put, if I were looking for someone with the essential qualities to successfully lead a school I would unhesitatingly select Michael Meyering and thus recommend him without reservation. If I can further elaborate on his qualifications, please contact me at (515) 271-2082 or at randal.peters@drake.edu. Sincerely, Randal Peters, EdD Assistant Professor Drake University School of Education

January 3, 2013 To Whom It May Concern: It is my distinct pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Mike Meyering. He is an outstanding teacher that has experience at multiple elementary grade levels within the Carroll Community School District. He is flexible and always willing to try multiple techniques in order to help his students achieve at a high level. It is evident that he enjoys working with the children and seeing them succeed. Mike is a leader and very comfortable working with technology. Mike worked under my supervision this past summer to help implement our 1:1 iPad program for our elementary school. He was a driving force behind planning and organizing the 1:1 for his building. Mike also takes the initiative to help aid his peers whenever they are having difficulties using certain types of technology. He is always eager to try new approaches to education and openly collaborates with colleagues. As the director of technology, he is the type of administrator that I would want leading a building within the district. Mike is an active member in our district by being involved with multiple extracurricular activities as well as organizations and committees. I admire his organizational skills and the guidance he is able to provide our student athletes. He also is a visible staff member out in the community. He presents to different organizations in our community about how we are educating children today in regards to technology and digital learning. Mike is a great advocate for the Carroll Community School District. In closing, I would highly recommend Mike Meyering for the available administrative position. He is the type of young educator a superintendent would love to have in their district. I have no doubt that he will be a valuable asset to any district that is fortunate enough to secure his services and would be a great loss for our district. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to call me at 712-775-5011. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Mr. Craig Rowedder Director of Technology Carroll Community Schools

December 11, 2012 The following is presented as a reference for Michael J. Meyering. He is working toward a degree in Educational Administration with a PreK-12 principal endorsement through Drake University, and I serve as one of his professors. He completed a graduate level seminar to begin the program, is working on two clinical experiences, and is developing an electronic portfolio. Therefore, I have had many opportunities to assess his skills and commitment. Class assignments involve individual and group work, individual and group presentations, and responsibility for contributing to class discussions. Michael is an active participant in these areas. He is attentive, listens to others’ opinions, contributes his own thoughts, and displays an in-depth knowledge of the complex field of education. Naturally, written work at the synthesis and analysis level is part of the curriculum, and use of technology is required for posting assignments. In speaking of technology, Michael was instrumental in researching, presenting and implementing a “l to l ”computer initiative in his district. The superintendent gave him and his committee broad authority to bring about the change. Working with two mentors, by June 2013, Michael will have spent approximately 200 hours immersed in school leadership tasks. For his internships, Michael is required to develop learning goals and action steps to fulfill those goals. He is also required to write reflective journals and professional notes. A professor colleague of mine, who is a practicing superintendent, commented on Michael’s positive attitude, passion for learning, attention to detail, and immediate rapport with others. Without a doubt, Michael’s strongest leadership trait is his belief in reaching all students and helping others develop the skills to do the same. He knows how to establish a viable learning environment, and serves as an instructional role model. His booming voice, inviting smile, and infectious personality put everyone at ease. Although, I have not supervised Michael in a job setting, it has been evident throughout his course work he is very committed to his chosen profession, and is a person of high integrity. Therefore, I do not hesitate to give him my strongest recommendation, and believe he will be very successful in whatever career path he pursues. Sincerely, Elaine Smith Bright Elaine Smith Bright, EdD Assistant Clinical Professor Drake University