InClass

 Yes, yes, yes! At least, that's what local teachers say...

Leah Jaynes, NBCT
Seventh/Eighth Grade Computers, Cartwright School District

Yes, teachers need a mentor. New teachers need an experienced teacher to calm the troubled waters. Often, new teachers have so many mandates and requirements heaped upon them, they don't know what to tackle first. Mentors can provide a way, and a voice, to attack each issue.

Cherie Stafford
TIPS (Technology In Practice Specialist)

Oh, most definitely, yes! The value of that personalized guidance, provided over an extended period has proven, positive results.

Sara Wyffels
High School Spanish, Chandler Unified School District

Absolutely. Every individual has their own process, and with a mentor, there is always someone there to throw ideas at, or to ask their opinion. Also, just simply having another teacher to observe can reveal a great potential for growth within oneself.

Beth Maloney, NBCT
Fifth Grade English/Language Arts and Social Studies, Dysart Unified School District

Teachers do need a mentor, but it doesn't have to be the one you're assigned. Listen and watch for the teachers who have solid skills and great attitudes and ask them to unofficially mentor you.

Hannah Jones, NBCT
Assistive Technology Specialist, Kyrene School District

Absolutely! I am in my ninth year of teaching and look to my mentor, Jo Shurman, constantly for advice and support! Mentors are especially crucial for teachers in years one through three.

Greg Broberg
Sixth Grade Humanities, Kyrene School District

Yes, teachers certainly need mentors. I think they also need coaches. I have been lucky and have had several amazing mentors. They have talked with me about every aspect of my practice. In many schools I think the term “mentor” is not taken seriously enough. We all need someone to tell us that we are doing a good job, but also someone to guide us when we need to make improvements.

Ashley Curtis, NBCT
Fifth Grade, Vail School District

Absolutely, teachers need mentors. Teachers learn from other teachers. We need to have someone to bounce ideas off, help to refill on enthusiasm, or remind us of what we are doing well. A mentor is an essential resource that all teachers need.

Karl Ochsner
Seventh and Eighth Grade STEM/1:1 Learning Coordinator, Diocese of Phoenix

Ab-so-LUTELY! The keyword is mentor (not evaluator, or someone that does not check in with a new teacher on a daily basis). New teachers need assistance on routine, ideas to use, assistance to solve problems and how to use technology effectively.

Marcy North
Reading Lab, Flowing Wells School District

Yes! No doubt about it.  Now more than ever. It’s important to have a colleague you can trust and go to for questions, concerns, etc. — no matter your experience.

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