Value of a Mentor

In the Classroom

A mentor can help ease your transition from student to educator, acting as a coach to guide you through your first months on the job. Find out if your campus or school district offers a new-teacher mentoring program.

Maximize your mentor relationship

A mentor can answer the kinds of questions that aren’t answered in books—questions about district policies and bureaucracy, dealing with the first day of class, parent-teacher conferences, report cards, etc.
Look at your mentor as a resource to help you become a more effective educator but not someone you depend on for every problem. Remember that your mentor has their own job and family responsibilities.
Both you and your mentor need to communicate questions and concerns. Discuss any evaluations or critiques with your mentor and ask for feedback.
Remember that not all of your mentor’s suggestions will work for you. There are many teaching styles and methods. Be yourself, and don’t do things just to impress your mentor.
Show appreciation for the time, expertise and materials your mentor devotes to your peace of mind and making you a better educator.