Join the great conversations going on about school leadership in our Facebook groups at Principal Life and High School Principal Life. Sometimes we focus too much on delivery of the lesson rather than the design of the lesson itself. He tells us to "build working relationships with the forward-thinking teachers who are excited about being a life-long learner." Require initial and ongoing professional development for mentors. What recommendations do you have for the first year? As mentor teachers, seek opportunities to let teacher candidates design or co-design lessons and units. However, successful mentors seek—and usually find—positive outcomes. Sometimes minor changes in present practices and a strong commitment to mentoring new teachers can make all the difference in the longevity of an educator’s career. I really do agree with the advice to visit schools before jumping into a program. We want our new teachers, the diamonds who bring new life to our profession, to sparkle. Journaling works, but sometimes casual conversations can become reflective. One of the benefits of being a mentor is the influx of fresh ideas from your mentee. The mentor teacher can also observe the new teacher and give them any pointers or praise for how they are teaching.—Jordan S. Knowing that you are just a text away means so much to a new teacher who simply needs to connect with someone who understands. Our mentoring should be deliberate, planned, and inclusive. Previous. Despite incorporating the best mentoring techniques from my younger years, I have not always succeeded in keeping great teachers from leaving the profession. Give new teachers the benefit of the doubt, be honest in feedback, and give time for improvement. If you’re a more experienced teacher, you may be that mentor. I recently reached out to fellow mentor teachers and asked them about their advice and best practices, not only for teacher mentors, but also for new teachers … Consider sharing your ideas in a blog as well, if you're comfortable putting yourself out there. Here are some great quotes and points from these practicing mentors. Almost all the mentor teachers I talked to reminded me of a phrase I use often, to "fail forward." New teachers can turn to their mentors for support when times are tough and seek advice. inducting new teachers into the profession. Before committee meetings, share expectations. The new teacher can observe the mentor teacher to get ideas, especially about how the curriculum works. It will help to keep you energized and model life-long learning for your students. One young teacher, who was the favorite among students, suddenly took another job because she couldn’t balance work and her personal life. To set them on the road to success. Match the new teacher with a mentor who has been carefully selected based on a record of proven success, knowledge and skills, and who is the right fit for the new teacher. Enjoy reading the wisdom of experienced teachers on how to become an effective, caring teacher.Our top 15 tips work for all kinds of situations and ages of students. In many programs, mentors are responsible for new teacher assessments, and mentors can suggest training for teachers to improve performance. Too many young teachers leave the classroom when all they need is support. Eat lunch together—just you two—and swap stories. After a grading session, discuss learning. 6 Armstrong Road | Suite 301 | Shelton, CT | 06484, $10,000 IN PRIZES! Many schools train mentors to excel in a specific area and then match new teachers with a variety of mentors who can provide expert advice on several topics. If you’ve been working in a school for any amount of time, you know this isn’t true! These meetings might be exactly what a new teacher needs to feel supported and remain a teacher. 2. How can veteran teachers help their newer colleagues succeed? Occasionally meet outside of school—a coffee shop, a bike trail, a football game—to develop a more personal relationship. They could be prone to mistakes or errors in judgment and benefit greatly from the guidance of an experienced teacher. Build your PLN, participate in Twitter chats, read blogs and find resources. Heather reminds us, "New teachers are eager and passionate. Push Things Forward. In Mentoring New Special Education Teachers: A Guide for Mentors … We all know that time is precious. This isn't great advice for teachers. Build a relationship. Ongoing conversations about the classes you teach, especially in the hallway between classes, can improve a new teacher’s day, simply because you checked in and asked them how a specific lesson was going. I remember that, when I first started teaching, there were some teachers who were often negative. They need someone that they can celebrate with and also someone who will let them express their fears and concerns." We continue to evolve and improve—even after 30 years! That’s what we asked the veteran teachers of the Teach100 community as part of our new Teach100 Mentor series. They expressed that all mistakes they made were part of the journey. January 2018 But not all mentoring programs … Develop methods of assigning mentors to new teachers. New Teachers Whether you're wondering if you should get into teaching, or have already made up your mind and just want to know how to become a teacher, we have pulled together everything you need to support you through your initial teacher training and NQT year. When they attend meetings, they want to know their ideas count and that they are being heard. During professional conversations about initiatives, model engagement. Find something that works for you and that will push your thinking. Ideas, Inspiration, and Giveaways for Teachers, Practical advice, inspiration, and tools for K-12 school leaders. Each teacher taking part in the program is paired with an experience teacher based on their needs in Classroom/Lab, SAE, and/or FFA. Mentors can make all the difference for a first-year teacher. Your colleague will inject new energy into your classes. It’s easier to find positives when we look for them. "Effective Communication Skills." Above all, we want them to stay and thrive. All stakeholders benefit. There is so much that social media has to offer teachers, both experienced and new. It is real world information that will hopefully help you and your students from day one. Copyright © 2020. Set up interviews or coffee with a teacher friend and ask great questions.