Would you like to be a mentor in one of our schools? If so, please complete this form. Should you have any questions about the mentorship program, contact Melissa McQuarrie, Office of Community Relations at 757.263.1936 or melissa.mcquarrie@vbschools.com.
“Every adult needs a child to teach . . . that's the way adults learn.” Guy Doud, Former National Teacher of the Year
WHY MENTORSHIPS?
The need . . .
The decrease in adult involvement in children's lives has been linked to numerous consequences for youth, from low achievement in school to increased juvenile crime rates. In an effort to counteract these trends, our schools are interested in establishing structured mentorship programs. Through these programs, we hope to strengthen students' chances for success by providing greater access to caring adults and the wealth of resources those adults possess.
The Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ mentorship program connects students with caring
adults by establishing supportive relationships, which encourage:
academic success;
emotional well-being;
interpersonal growth; and,
special interests.
What does a mentor do?
A mentor may serve as a friend, coach, sponsor, guide, advocate, and role model for a student. The mentor meets with the student weekly at school, usually during “home base,” lunch, or before or after school. Mentors may tutor students in academic subjects, share common interests such as sports or music, and serve as good listeners when students want to talk. The basic tasks of mentors are to:
establish open, friendly, and trusting relationships with students;
help students develop life skills;
provide students with new possibilities and opportunities; and,
increase students’ ability to interact and communicate.
Qualifications of Mentors A mentor should:
volunteer at least 30 minutes per week to meet with a student;
attend an orientation/training session;
have a genuine concern for young people;
respect and accept different points of view;
be a good listener;
be encouraging and supportive ;
be dependable, providing stability and inspiring trust; and,
Benefits of Mentoring
Research indicates the following benefits to school-based mentorships:
Students are provided with additional positive adult role models.
Students are able to communicate with someone who cares about them and can listen without judging.
Students may experience improved academic performance, new and varied interests, and increased confidence.
Mentors experience personal satisfaction from making positive contributions to youth.
Mentors develop a better understanding of young people and the challenges they face.
Schools and communities strengthen mutually beneficial relationships, which tend to energize both.
If you are interested in serving as a mentor to a child, please contact Melissa McQuarrie, Director, Office of Community Relations, at 757.263.1936 or melissa.mcquarrie@vbschools.com.
. Should you have any questions about the mentorship program, contact Melissa McQuarrie, Office of Community Relations at 757.263.1936 or 
.
