I really like the quote by Steve Jobs that says, “My job is not to be easy on people. My job is to take these great people we have and push them and make them even better.” In a school setting, we are all very qualified professionals who have the ability to be great and to do great things. I think mentoring is about encouraging people to use the skills that they have and make them even better than what they are now. Of course, there is an appropriate and supportive way to push others while still remaining kind and encouraging. Finding the balance between those things is what makes a great mentor in my opinion.
