Mentors? Go Find 1 or More!

Why do you need a mentor? There is much debate and discussion about mentors in schools. Should they be assigned or grow out of natural circumstances. I have been an educator for 25 years and have enjoyed the direction and friendship of several different mentors throughout my career. None of these mentors were assigned to me, although, some of them were my supervisors.

You need a mentor, probably more than one, as your career progresses and you become more comfortable in your school and district. I say this because teachers are already somewhat of an island. You go into your classroom and do the best that you can for students every day, but who is there for you?

Your mentor can be that person. When you are new, it is very important to find someone you feel comfortable talking/working with. They will help you learn the culture of your school. By culture, I mean all of the unspoken rules and customs that are NOT printed in your teacher guide, but if you violate them, it could place you in a poor position. Mentors will help you learn who to go to for the many different things you will need to be proficient at.

As you become more comfortable with your curriculum and your site, you may want to find another mentor to help you grow as a leader. I would recommend choosing someone that you look up to. Many of your supervisors are charged with trying to grow leaders, so they will be more than happy to meet with you either formally or informally to answer your questions, be a sounding board, and perhaps even suggest professional development or career development that would benefit you.

Remember, anything you do to make yourself a more well-rounded teacher leader benefits both you and your students in the classroom.

Amanda Shively a 2015 Region V Fellow.