Making the Most of Your Mentorship Experience

By Dr. Loy Dakwa | March 15, 2024

Having a mentor as a beginning teacher is invaluable. A good mentor can provide guidance, support, and practical advice as you navigate your first years in the classroom. However, the effectiveness of this relationship largely depends on how you approach it and engage with your mentor.

1. Be Proactive

Schedule regular meetings: Don't wait for your mentor to always initiate contact. Set up regular meeting times to discuss your progress, challenges, and questions.
Prepare discussion points: Come to meetings prepared with specific questions or topics you'd like to discuss. This shows your mentor that you value their time and are taking the relationship seriously.
Seek opportunities to observe: Ask if you can observe your mentor teaching or if they can observe you and provide feedback. This is one of the most valuable learning experiences you can have.

2. Be Open to Feedback

Embrace constructive criticism: Remember that feedback, even when critical, is meant to help you grow. Try not to take it personally.
Ask for specific feedback: If you're unsure about an aspect of your teaching, ask for focused feedback on that area.
Implement suggestions: Show your mentor that you value their input by implementing their suggestions when appropriate.

3. Share Your Goals

Discuss your professional goals: Be clear about what you hope to achieve in your teaching career, both short-term and long-term.
Identify areas for growth: Let your mentor know which aspects of teaching you find challenging or would like to improve.
Revisit goals regularly: Periodically review your goals with your mentor to assess progress and make adjustments as needed.

4. Be Respectful of Their Time

Be punctual: Always arrive on time for scheduled meetings and observations.
Come prepared: Have materials ready, including lesson plans, student work, or any documents you need to discuss.
Handle minor issues independently: Try to solve simpler problems on your own, saving more complex issues for your mentor discussions.

5. Express Gratitude

Say thank you: Regularly express appreciation for your mentor's time, guidance, and support.
Share successes: Let your mentor know when their advice has led to positive outcomes in your classroom.
Pay it forward: As you gain experience, look for opportunities to mentor others, continuing the cycle of support in the teaching profession.

Conclusion

A strong mentorship can significantly impact your development as a teacher. By being proactive, open to feedback, clear about your goals, respectful of your mentor's time, and appreciative of their guidance, you can make the most of this valuable professional relationship. Remember that your mentor was once in your position, and their experience can help you navigate the challenges of teaching with greater confidence and skill.