What is the OMS Mentoring Program?

Beginning with the 2009-10 academic year, Otsego Middle School is launching an on-site mentoring program for students who express the need and desire to build a relationship with another caring, trusting adult.  In collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kalamazoo, all OMS mentors are interviewed, screened, and trained to serve as mentors for adolescents.  Mentors meet with their "mentees" once a week for approximately 45 minutes at some point during the school day and only within the school campus (times rotate so that students do not miss the same class each week).  Mentors are not counselors or tutors- they are simply here to build a trusting, dependable relationship by sharing their time, their energy, their stories, and -most importantly- listen to student concerns and offer reassurance and encouragement.

How does a student request and receive a mentor?

Students and parents may request a mentor at any time during the school year by contacting Mr. Fuller.

Both student and parental permission are required to receive a mentor.  Once permission is given, the counseling department will go about finding and assigning a mentor from our pool of identified volunteers.  Both the mentor's and the student's interests, personalities, schedules, and gender are taken into consideration when "matching" a student with a mentor.

How do I become a mentor?

We are always looking for mentors!  Mentoring at Otsego Middle School is easier than you think, and only requires an hour of your time each week.  Please contact Mr. Fuller to find out how to become part of this rewarding program- and a part of our team!