MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of the mentoring program in the Westborough School System is to improve student learning by supporting new teachers personally, professionally and practically.  Mentoring is most successful when new teachers and mentors are given sufficient time to work together in a relationship based on respect, trust and confidentiality.  Such support recognizes and encourages the system wide need for collegiality and professional growth for all teachers.  The result is effective teaching and enhanced learning and achievement.

GOALS

· To assist all new teachers in the challenges common to teachers new to education or new to the system by integrating them into the climate and culture of the school district and community.

· To increase each new teacher's personal and professional development, enabling them to gain comfort, confidence and instructional competence.

· To provide interpersonal and professional support that encourages new teachers and mentors to reflect on their teaching and their professional growth.

· To retain highly qualified new teachers.

· To create a system wide atmosphere of collegiality and openness that heightens morale and improves instruction and learning.

· To improve student learning and achievement.