In what ways can you relate to the information shared?
The second article spoke to the phases of development that teachers, perhaps especially new teachers, face throughout the school year. I can empathize with the range of emotions that come with new challenges and I can help to anticipate busier times and be supportive. There are many questions that pop up from time to time, and I can be that readily-accessible resource to my mentee. Some takeaways from article 3 are the importance of trust, feedback and empowerment. Being that I am so passionate about education, I know that the feedback I have to offer will always be well-intentioned, as well as meaningful. I view myself as someone that seeks to also view strengths in others.
In what ways do you think you can support a new teacher. Mentoring helps new teachers recognize areas where their content knowledge or classroom management skills may need development, allowing for early intervention and targeted support. I believe that I can be supportive in the way of offering advice, discussion of research-based best practices and resources. I especially enjoy supporting classroom and behavior management, as this is at the core of an efficiently-run classroom! Additionally, in the area of content knowledge, I have expanded my craft and leadership to working as an adjunct, now senior lecturer, at Niagara University. I teach multiple, graduate-level literacy courses. Therefore, I have a lot of experience in chunking and delivering information in meaningful ways.
In what ways as a mentor will you need additional support?
I believe that not only meeting with my mentee is important, but I will also need the opportunity to observe and offer constructive feedback and prompt reflection. I also look forward to the opportunity for ongoing professional development for the two of us to unpack together.
