Research documents that new teachers experience problems during the induction period, which, if unaddressed, can lead to negative attitudes, poor instructional performance, and possible departure from the teaching profession. Studies tell us that a comprehensive mentoring program can solve or reduce the problems faced by new teachers, improve the quality of instruction and their students’ learning, and help to retain promising teachers.
This mentoring program is designed to provide prospective teachers with general knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed for effective teaching. Even with strong preparation, the new teacher still requires support in adapting to the real classroom, adjusting to a new professional environment, organizing and managing a classroom, becoming familiar with the curriculum, obtaining instructional resources, and developing effective lines of communication with peers, administration, parents, and the community.
The primary purpose of the Scituate Public Schools’ Mentor Program is to develop students to their fullest academic, social, and personal potential. One way to achieve this goal is to help teachers develop to their fullest potential as educators, to provide time for new teachers and mentors to work in close proximity in a collegial environment toward professional growth. Our purpose is to provide a framework of professional and emotional support for the new teacher through mentoring.
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