What’s the DCMO BOCES Mentoring Program?

The virtual mentoring program was designed to help students search and preepare for local career opportunities. This is a pilot program funded in partnership with a federal grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to promote workforce development and graduates retention in our region.

How does the Mentorship Program work?

The program uses Chambers of Commerce as independent mentorship recruitment networks. Chambers will lead the recruitment of mentors in their region and will develop a structure to make this program self-sustained in the future.

Why is the Chamber handling the mentoring program recruitment?

Because the program is building a partnership with business membership organizations that can be sustained in the future with contributions and sponsorships.

What type of mentorship will be needed?

Mentors will engage in career mentorship only. The discussion and advice will revolve around regional jobs and local career and higher educational opportunities for our students.

What grade will students participate in the mentorship program?

Seniors soon to graduate in the summer of 2023 will participate in the program.

How will the mentorship meetings be conducted?

All mentorship meetings will be held through zoom meetings. Zoom links will be provided for each mentor. All zoom meetings will be recorded.

When will the mentoring sessions be held?

All mentoring sessions will take place during school hours from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm.

How long will the mentoring sessions be?

Meeting sessions will be 15 minutes or 30 minutes. Mentors may request additional sessions with the student when needed. Teachers will coordinate with mentors the student availability.

Where will the students be during the mentoring session?

Students will be at the school facility with access to robust internet connectivity and equipment to improve the communication quality of each session.

Do mentors get to choose the student they want to work with?

Students will choose the mentor based on their understanding of the Mentor Profile, affinity with mentor background and perceived chemistry.

Do I get to promote my organization’s jobs during the mentorship session?

Yes, we encourage mentors to share information with the student on opportunities, career ladder and any other incentive that can motivate them to try the jobs.

Do I need to offer work shadowing or job experience to the student?

No. Mentors are not required to fund a work experience or host an onsite work-based learning program.

Will I get paid for my mentoring time?

Mentors offer their services as volunteers.

Do I need to commit to the program in advance?

Mentors will sign a Mentorship Agreement that will outline their role and responsibilities.

Will I receive training and orientation on the program before we start?

Yes, on January 6, 2023, the Mentorship Program kickoff meeting will be held.

Is the January 6, 2023 meeting required?

Attending this orientation meeting is important. However, for those unable to attend, an orientation must be completed with the designated Chamber of Commerce to acknowledge the information and sign the Mentorship Agreement document.

May I invite a student to my business facility to visit?

Yes. The invitation will need to be coordinated with the school team in charge of connecting students to the workplace. To request a tour or visit, please contact Linda Haynes(haynesl@dcmoboces.com)

Do I need to be a Chamber Member to be a mentor?

During the pilot program, mentors will not need to be chamber members. However, each Chamber of Commerce will establish membership options for mentors.

Can I choose to mentor students directly in the future?

Mentoring underage students represents a risk for individuals. Mentors working through school programs have better opportunities to serve students and when acting according to the rules, can avoid liability issues.

What happens if I feel uncomfortable with the mentoring session?

Mentors will receive training on how to avoid challenges and how to end a conversation that is not comfortable.

Can I cancel my mentoring program at any time?

Absolutely. Mentors are best when passionate about the task and comfortable with the delivery of support. We want our mentors to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

I know someone who would be an excellent mentor. How do I get this person involved?

Please refer the person to the designated Chamber of Commerce. They will follow through on the preparation.

What if I am joining the program after January 6, 2023 and missed the orientation?

No worries, a personal VIRTUAL orientation will be scheduled and the documentation will be completed by your designated chamber representative.

Can I pause mentoring sessions in the event of an unexpected event or emergency?

Of course! The Chamber team will help us identify a new mentor to take your place or will help find another mentor to begin another mentoring track.