A successful mentoring program requires a partnership between a mentor and a student. Both the student and the parent must recognize the message of the mentoring relationship and work together to meet the goals of the program. Parents and mentors should be aware of any disciplinary issues that might arise and be available to offer advice. The parents should also be aware of any issues that might come up, including emotional or academic problems. The mentor should be the main point of contact between the student and the parent, but both parties should stay in contact.
Once the student and parent have agreed on a mentor, the two should meet at least once a month. Meetings are held weekly and usually include a parent meeting, telephone conversation, or a face-to-face meeting. Mentors are often asked to help students find funding for specialized equipment or medical or therapeutic services. Parents should also be aware of the schedule of monthly meetings, as well as any special events. Meetings will help both parties to stay informed and share best practices.
A mentor can offer children someone to confide in, a responsible friend who listens to their concerns. In addition to providing an outlet for venting, a mentor can also provide encouragement to engage in school-based activities and try new things. This relationship can help a child to thrive in school, especially if the mentor is supportive and helps them think about their goals. Developing the Habits of Success is vital for a student’s future. And, mentors can make these connections through explicit instruction in school.
Mentors work with school administrators and teachers to build partnerships that promote positive outcomes. Through these relationships, parent mentors empower parents to become involved and help their children succeed in school. A mentor’s role often begins with a child’s first referral to special education. Mentors encourage parents to participate in IEP meetings, attend parent-teacher conferences, and learn about effective transition planning. They also connect parents to community partners and resources related to improving school success.
A parent mentor can earn a GED, become a parent tutor, or even serve on a school council. In addition to a parent mentor’s role, the mentors may also volunteer to be on school councils or work in the community centers. The recruitment process begins in the first week of school with fliers and notes sent home with the children. Parents then must apply for an interview. Anyone can apply for the program, even if they have no previous teaching experience.
During the mentorship process, if a relationship does not work out, there is a process in place for addressing any issues. A match coordinator will meet with the mentee and parent to discuss concerns and resolve misunderstandings. Stepping Stones also provides ongoing training for both mentors and mentees, and the program offers mentoring training on problem-solving and communication skills. It is vital for both parties to be aware of any issues and concerns that may arise.
One of the most important factors for the success of a mentoring program is the quality of the mentors. One study showed that single parents were more likely to seek a mentor than parents who were married. However, the results were not the same for parents of single parents. This study indicates the need for more research on this topic. It may be a good time to start a program that offers quality mentorship for both students and parents.
The program is a great example of how parent mentors can impact the success of a school. The Logan Square Neighborhood Association, for example, works with the Southwest Organizing Project to provide coaching to community organizations and school districts. The Logan Square neighborhood association, which is predominantly minority and poor, has found that 80 percent of parent mentors go on to get jobs and education. However, the program is not for everyone. If your district is in the same position as the Logan Square School, you should consider collaborating with other districts.
Teammates matches students with an adult volunteer. The mentor serves as a supporter and coach for the student. It can be crucial to academic success. A mentoring program at SUNY Schenectady pairs students with an adult mentor who shares similar interests, values, and life experiences. During the mentoring program, the student receives guidance, support, and encouragement to achieve personal goals and overcome obstacles. If you’re a parent, you’ll be pleased to hear that the mentors at SUNY Schenectady are dedicated to facilitating this relationship between student and adult.