Amherst County Public Schools Mentor Teacher Program
The Amherst County Public Schools (ACPS) Teacher Mentor Program includes experienced teachers who have received intensive training to serve as mentors for all teachers new to the Amherst County Public Schools during their first two years in the division. ACPS' mentor program is designed to assist teachers as they make a smooth transition from their teacher preparation program into the classroom setting; or from previous experience in another school system into ACPS. In addition, the program utilizes formative tools that assist the mentor and new teacher in their reflective process. This collaborative work results in a reflective teaching team. Experienced ACPS mentors have participated in training academies based on current evidence based practices, and continue to receive professional development and support from both building and division level lead mentors. As mentors, they have an opportunity to grow professionally; therefore, this program is viewed as a vehicle for growth for new and experienced teachers.
ACPS' mentor program is designed to meet the needs of our newly hired teachers whether he or she is an experienced teacher new to the Amherst County Public Schools or a new teacher in their first year of teaching. Mentors have been trained to recognize the stages of teaching so that they can tailor their assistance to meet the specific needs of the new teacher. For example, an experienced teacher new to the Amherst County Public Schools may need orientation regarding curriculum, specific school and division procedures, and networking with other professionals, while a beginning teacher may need more strategies for classroom management and effective instruction. Regardless of the needs, the mentor is available to assist the new teacher to help him or her be a successful member of the Amherst County Public Schools team.
Our Commitment
When new teachers and mentors collaborate to enhance their teaching strategies and skills they will more effectively meet the needs of children. The ACPS Mentor Teacher Program is dedicated to improving student learning by supporting the development of an inspired, dedicated and highly qualified teaching force. The program is based on evidence validated best practices and formative assessment tools. Administrators understand that time for mentoring is a priority and make all attempts to schedule time into the working day so that our well trained mentors have quality time for mentoring new teachers. They work closely with new teachers during their first and second years of teaching. Also, they assist veteran teachers who are new to the Amherst County Public Schools. The mentor program model utilized by the ACPS focuses on building reflective, autonomous teachers who are leaders in their classrooms and in our school division.
Here are a few comments from first year and veteran teachers new to Amherst County Public Schools made during our New Teacher Forums:
"I love the mentor program. I feel very supported."
"School administrators, department chairs, and mentors have been available and supportive."
"I have a great relationship with my mentor. She has spent significant time with me, and I appreciate her wisdom."
Click here to access the mentor teacher website.