1. Reflect: What from the TedX video caused you to think more deeply about becoming a mentor? As a recent mentee but an experienced teacher coming from another district, I applied my prior knowledge as I transitioned into the Sweet Home District as a result there was a lot less of the day-to-day question that my mentor needed to cover. Had we not gotten to know one another there would have been a lot of time spent on the basics that would have been unnecessary. It’s important that the mentor spend time getting to know the mentee to not only build a relationship but that getting to know them personally, learn about their experiences, strengths/weaknesses and goals will help you better determine how you can best support them. The video mentions: “Have a Plan” I agree that going into the mentor relationship with a plan is important as it will ensure that all necessary topics are covered. I made a list of what I felt a “new” teacher would need to know early in the year to be confident and successful and I will review the provided materials to ensure that I include it where appropriate. I believe the biggest hurdle as a new teacher is that they don’t always know what questions to ask so using my prior experiences will ensure that they get the support they need when they need it. The video says that “it always takes more time, more energy and more effort but that it’s always worth it.” He goes on to say, “That it’s going to be hard”. I’m prepared for the challenge. As I’m aware of the time commitment, the different needs that each mentee will present and that I will need to stay current on best practices and professional development to ensure that my mentees are given the best support to succeed in Sweet Home.
2. Reflect: From the Self-Assessment Inventory, what stands out the most about the questions and your answers? I think that what stood out the most was that I have a willingness to not only continue my learning but to share what I have learned with others. I’m focused on taking the time to get to know the mentee to ensure that they are receiving the support they need to be successful in their role and I look forward to collaborating with them during their career.
3. Reflect: What do you believe you might need help with as a mentor in our school district? Finding common time before/after school to have regular in-person meetings to address the mentees needs. During the school day we may not have a shared planning period, I would look for creative ways to involve the mentee in my world so that they get what support they need from me when they need it.
2. Reflect: From the Self-Assessment Inventory, what stands out the most about the questions and your answers? I think that what stood out the most was that I have a willingness to not only continue my learning but to share what I have learned with others. I’m focused on taking the time to get to know the mentee to ensure that they are receiving the support they need to be successful in their role and I look forward to collaborating with them during their career.
3. Reflect: What do you believe you might need help with as a mentor in our school district? Finding common time before/after school to have regular in-person meetings to address the mentees needs. During the school day we may not have a shared planning period, I would look for creative ways to involve the mentee in my world so that they get what support they need from me when they need it.