Connecting with Mentor Teachers

In this episode, host Beth Ayelot speaks with Jessica Classen from the David Douglas School District Mentoring Program. They talk about the support that a mentoring program can offer new teachers by connecting them with more experienced educators.  The main focus of the program are first and second year teachers, with a number of embedded supports in and out of the classroom. 

The work of a mentor provides support in professional practice, as well as social and emotional support.  These programs are not evaluative or judgemental, and mentors have firm boundaries about how they discuss a mentee with an administrator. Confidence is a central part of the relationship. Ultimately, mentors are advocates for new teachers. 

In districts where there is not an established mentoring program, Jessica encourages new educators to “find your people and a place where you feel like you fit.” This could be a person who you confide in, bounce ideas off of, and vent your frustration without sinking too far down. 

 

Resources:

Learn more about the David Douglas New Teacher Mentoring Program

Union Supports Early Career Educators- OEA Website

OEA Grow is a member of the Labor Radio Podcast Network.