How are students selected for the program?
Campus administrators, teachers, and counselors identify students they feel can benefit from having a mentor. Once a student is selected, the parent / guardian is contacted and informed that their child has been referred to this mentor program. Permission to participate in the mentor program is sought from the parent / guardian. The student is the contacted, and asked if he / she would like to be part of this program. No student is required to participate.
How does a mentor impact a student?
Having a mentor can be life changing. The power of the relationship has the potential to help the student reach his / her greatest potential. Research shows an overall improvement in the student's daily life as well as long-term benefits. Benefits of participating in a mentor program include, but are not limited to:
-
Decreased office referrals
-
Enhanced self-esteem & self-confidence
-
Increased student achievement
-
Improved relationships & social skills
Mentors can powerfully influence the lives of young people in the following ways:
-
Encourage student to stay in school and graduate.
-
Provide student with support and guidance.
-
Encourage student to avoid the use of drugs and alcohol.
-
Help student experience greater self-esteem and motivation to succeed.
-
Help student with interpersonal relationships, such as with teachers and family.
-
Provide student with assistance in choosing a career path.
How does the program impact the mentor?
For the mentor, the relationship to help a student succeed can offer the following advantages:
-
Can increase one's involvement in the community.
-
Can help one recognize he / she can make a difference.
-
Can help one gain new experiences and knowledge about youth and the community schools.
-
Can help one contribute to the quality of the future workforce.
What is required of a mentor?
Mentors are asked to volunteer a minimum of 30 minutes per week during the school day. This is a school-based program; therefore, all mentoring takes place at the student's campus during a time that has been set up by the campus counselor. Outside contact is prohibited unless approved by the mentee's parent or guardian.
How do I become a mentor?
Mentors are required to complete a criminal background check, attend mentor orientation training, and submit a mentor application. Once you have completed the three required tasks above, you will be assigned to a campus and student, and a date will be established to begin the program.
