Do letters of recommendation need to be from teachers?

No, letters of recommendation do not *need* to be from teachers. While teacher recommendations are common, especially for college applications or scholarships, strong recommendations from other individuals who can speak to your abilities and character are also valuable. These could include:

* Counselors: School counselors often provide excellent recommendations.

* Coaches: If you've participated in significant extracurricular activities, a coach can offer insight into your teamwork, dedication, and leadership skills.

* Employers: If you've had a job, a supervisor or manager can provide a recommendation based on your work ethic and performance.

* Mentors: Someone who has mentored you in a professional or personal capacity can offer a unique perspective.

* Community leaders: If you've volunteered or participated in community organizations, a leader from that group might provide a recommendation.

The best recommendation letters come from people who know you well and can provide specific examples to support their assessment of your abilities and character. The source of the recommendation is less important than the quality and substance of the letter itself.