Following up on my last blog of the necessity for aspiring administrators to find a mentor, it is just as important for aspiring administrators to be a mentor!

One of the most important roles of administrators is to build up leaders within the school. In the world of education there are so many talented and passionate educators, it is extremely important for administrators to get out there within the school community, recognize leaders, and support them in their own professional learning and growth. You can begin this process as a teacher leader…you do not need to wait until you acquire an administrative position!

Most schools have programs to support new teachers and this is the perfect opportunity to “take on” a new teacher and support him/her in their transition to a new school and/or country. By being assigned their “mentor” or “buddy” you will take on the role of supporting them long before they arrive for the first day of school. Naturally they will come to you for support and this seamless transition provides you the opportunity to serve as a mentor.

When new teachers arrive to your school, and you have already supported them and communicated with them prior to their arrival, they will begin to see you as a teacher leader and someone to turn to with questions or support. You will naturally begin to be seen in a different light and respected on a different level within the entire school community. If your school does not already have a system in place for teachers to observe each others classrooms, I would highly recommend this as an initiative that you bring to the table (this could be a great opportunity for you to make a positive change within your school and to gain leadership experience). Non-evaluative, peer observations serve as a wonderful resource and can be a powerful professional learning opportunity for teachers to connect with and learn from one another.

All teachers are mentors and role models to their students. Now is the time for you to find practical ways to also serve as a mentor and role model for your colleagues!