Our Voices, our Schools - February 2009
Why do you think supporting quality educators is important for the future of Oregon's students and what has participating in Oregon's Beginning Teacher and Administrator Mentor Program meant for you?
I believe it is imperative to support our beginning educators! Teaching is much more than delivering content. Without support, many new teachers become disillusioned. They can become frustrated and concerned, and often keep everything inside believing if they share those concerns, or perceived failures, others will think less of them as a teacher. A mentor is someone who will listen, collaborate, model, and encourage. A mentor is someone they have trust in who is there just for them. A mentor can build a new educator's confidence exponentially. In turn, this carries over to the children and leads to greater student success.
Working as a mentor this year has been such a learning experience. By helping new teachers look deeper at their own instruction, it has helped me become more reflective.
What aspect of Advocacy Day did you think was most helpful for participating in the legislative process?
I truly cannot pinpoint one specific aspect of Advocacy Day that was more helpful than another. I was so thankful for all the well thought out planning and details that everyone at Chalkboard helped with. For someone like myself who has never been part of anything to do with the legislative process, I felt confident and supported in my efforts to speak with legislators.
