<p>Ok, so I need 2 recommendation letters for most of the colleges that I am applying to. Most schools want "academic teachers." My best subject is math, so I'll have my math teacher do one, but then I want my debate coach to do my other one. He knows me way better than any of my other teachers, and will write me an amazing letter. He has read my papers, and I've been in his debate class 3 times. Should I send in an additional academic teacher? I feel like it really won't add anything, but I don't want to be penalized for only having one real academic teacher.</p>
<p>That’s a tough situation. I think you should do it on a school-by-school basis, to be honest. For example, some schools say that they ONLY want academic teachers; others are willing to read two academic teachers and a supplement, and still others will take the debate coach letter and be fine with it. First and foremost, if you know where you’re aplying, familiarize yourself with their recommendation policies - call the office of admissions if you have to.</p>
<p>If you just want my pure, gut-instinct answer, I’d say get two academic teachers and use the debate coach letter, for a total of three recommendations.</p>
<p>I do know people who have used elective teachers pretty successfully, but they were also remarkably gifted in those areas (art, creative writing). I would recommend getting another teacher unless the rec would be truly lackluster, and sending the debate rec as a supplemental.</p>