SDoJ Instructional Mentoring/Coaching Program

Teaching is a complex and demanding profession.  Since staff members are important contributors to educational excellence, the School District of Jefferson has an interest and an obligation to see that the beginning teachers become successful. That the teaching experience can be enhanced by sharing experiences and collegial nurturing under the guidance of experienced professionals is widely accepted.  The School District of Jefferson has established the New to the District Teacher Mentoring Program to assist beginning teachers and new to the district hires in developing meaning and understanding of district practices and effective teaching techniques.  The transition to the School District of Jefferson can be made more smoothly and effectively through continued orientation and support. 

• Enhance student achievement

• Enhance teaching performance

• Enhance teacher retention in the profession and in our district

• Promote the personal and professional well-being of the beginning teacher

• Ease the transition for the beginning teacher into the school district

• Transmit the culture of the school district and the school to the beginning teacher

• Foster a better educational environment by breaking down the isolation of the beginning teacher and by promoting cooperation among teachers, administrators, and support staff

• Encourage recognition that the professional development of a teacher is an ongoing educational process, from pre-service to departure from the profession

The School District of Jefferson (SDoJ)  provides ongoing orientation, support seminars, and a qualified instructional mentor for each of our beginning teachers (new to SDoJ and first, second, and third year in the classroom) in order to address their unique needs.  An instructional mentor is paired with a beginning teacher for a period of three school years. We use a continuum of mentoring/coaching services (see table below this section) to provide support to the beginning teacher.  A teacher hired new to the district will be placed on the continuum for mentoring/coaching services based on need.  The instructional mentor will participate in activities with the beginning teacher as goals are set and teaching skills continue to develop.  Activities may include analyzing student work, goal setting, and informal observation. New staff are also supported through seminars that focus on timely topics related to their position.

Experienced teachers (new to SDoJ and three or more years in the classroom) will be provided orientation and support through a building coach.  The purpose of a building coach is to assist a veteran staff member in their transition to SDoJ. A building coach provides collegial support while also assisting with building/content specific, and navigating district resources.