Why is group mentoring so important to novice teacher development and retention?
Mentoring beyond year 1 is essential to beginning teachers. Working in small groups allows teachers to see they are not the only ones who may be challenged. It also encourages collegiality which promotes sharing ideas and problem solving.
Action Plan for Group Mentoring
School leaders model and create the culture of sharing. It is important for teachers to have school leaders who encourage sharing and group problem solving.
How can group mentoring help novice teachers solve problems?
We know that novices face many challenges in their beginning years. Mentors can be proactive and organize sessions on topics that novices see as relevant to their teaching practices. With an experienced teacher facilitating the discussion a variety of solutions can be presented.
This 30 minute group session is led by a mentor. It is offered monthly and is an optional meeting which focuses on a problem of practice. Each month a new topic is offered. All teachers are invited and beginners are encouraged to attend. Notice the inspiration of the participants when their problems are addressed.
How does group mentoring support novice teachers as leaders?
It is never too early to invite novices to share ideas and lead groups. In fact many beginners share that this is what is keeping them in teaching.
These beginning teachers are leading their own sharing best practices group. Simply sharing ideas is one important way to boost morale and encourage participation. Notice the mentor is “behind the scenes” supporting the teacher leader so the meeting can be successful.