Mentors Rock!

The students and faculty at South Florence High School have rolled out the welcome mat and have embraced our work with open arms. I am grateful for the opportunity to conduct the Pee Dee Regional Initial Mentor Training on the campus. Schools are buzzing with life, laughter, and the wonderful sounds of learning. When I walked into the media center to set up yesterday afternoon, I was greeted with the beautiful banner created by students!

Today rocked! Not only did we have the chance to work with passionate teacher leaders, but we also had a rare opportunity to merge recruitment, retention, and advancement efforts with Mary Glover's high school Teacher Cadets. As part of their work today, the students had a chance to observe adult learners in action, witness the level of commitment our mentors have to providing quality support for beginning teachers, and participate in our Bright Ideas Activity. I agree wholeheartedly, "Mentors Rock!" Check out some of the images of our work together today!

Jasper County Mentor Training

2012 Jasper Certified Mentors 

It was a privilege and honor to serve this past week with thoughtful, committed educators in Jasper County School District. The district sponsored a South Carolina Initial Mentor Training to assist in building a strong cohort of certified mentors to serve beginning educators.

Working with the educators, I was inspired by individuals who forge partnerships with parents and families, go the extra mile to make a difference in their schools and communities, and are dedicated to lifelong learning. We had an awesome three days together learning and growing!

Over the course of the three days, we focused on our vision for quality teaching! We explored the multiple roles of the mentor, building a trusting relationship, and the use of formative assessment tools to provide support for our beginning teachers. I want to thank Franklin Foster from Orangeburg 5 and Dr. Holmes from Jasper for co-training with me!