Should I be a mentor?

The decision to become a mentor is a big one! Mentorship offers many rewards, but it also requires a strong commitment to beginning teacher learning and a substantial investment of time and energy. 

This section will help you evaluate whether you wish to be a mentor. It may also provide you with ideas you can use in advocating for a stronger mentoring program in your school or district.

What are the rewards of mentoring?

• Mentorship offers a new professional challenge to experienced teachers.
• Mentors gain satisfaction from helping beginning teachers develop as professionals.
• Mentors have opportunities to improve their own teaching through reflection, collaboration with others and continued professional development.

What else should I consider as I decide whether or not to become a mentor?

• Your school or district may have a job description that outlines the specific responsibilities of mentors and the support mentors can expect to receive.
• You may also want to consider how your school or district selects mentors and matches mentors and beginning teachers.

Tool: Self-evaluation: Should I be a mentor?