Each district will identify a high-quality educator to serve as a mentor for a MPER Scholar. For Scholars in their first and second years in the classroom, this mentor can be a part of the Beginning Teacher Assistance Program. For other Scholars, the district will provide an informal mentor/guide to support the Scholars during their program of study. As employees of the district, mentors will support MPER Scholars by helping develop an awareness of community/district/school culture and characteristics. As quality educators, mentors will assist MPER Scholars in their beginning years through regular contact, feedback, and collaboration with a focus on professional growth. Districts will also agree to provide four (4) release days per year. This time will allow the mentor and Scholar to attend a PD session and allow the mentors to observe the Scholar’s practice.

Mentor teachers provide MPER Scholars with on-site coaching and support regarding:

• Curriculum planning
• Assessment
• Parent communication
• Classroom management
• School events

Mentor teachers work with the MPER Scholars throughout the year, serve as a resource and coach, and even co-teach.