Frankenmuth

Madalyn McKenzie, a mentee, expresses the effectiveness of this program stating, "Being a part of the mentor program as a mentee has helped me feel less of a 'new teacher' and more a part of this staff of efficient, hard working, and passionate teachers and administration. I have felt supported since day one, not only by my mentor, but by all of the veteran teachers who have continuously reached out with guidance and care for my success. By expressing their support for me, my coworkers also demonstrate their love for all students and dedication to follow them throughout their education into other classrooms and courses. This is the exact form of mentorship, inspiration, and guidance that any new teacher would hope for when starting their career." It embodies what makes Frankenmuth a great place to live, work and learn. The FSD Teacher Mentorship Program is part of a professional culture that promotes continuous learning and seeks valuable advice, feedback and support that will ensure Frankenmuth's legacy of academic excellence. Fall 2022 marks a turning point for the Frankenmuth School District (FSD) with the introduction of a Teacher Mentorship program. This program connects veteran teachers as mentors to newly hired staff. FSD has a history of success due in large part to its talented group of teachers - so what better way to continue this legacy than to pass along their successful practices to our new employees and continue the tradition of excellence? Supported by studies such as those by Stanford Research Institute, teacher mentorship programs have been proven to not only increase teacher retention but also increase student achievement. FSD's program provides a positive and supportive workplace for new staff, helping them succeed in a safe environment to learn and ask questions - emulating what students experience in our classrooms. Mentoring helps to cultivate a culture of learning and continued growth. Each month mentors and mentees meet using a guide created and supported by teacher Heather Brey, a district veteran of 22 years. These meetings provide mentees the opportunity to learn from an experienced and trusted mentor. In addition to these meetings, mentees will engage in collegial visits to see effective teaching strategies modeled in their mentor's classroom. The relationship established in this program not only benefits the mentee; it empowers the veteran teacher to strengthen their instruction. Mrs. Amy Kolb, a mentor teacher at E.F. Rittmueller Middle School shared, "Being a mentor is an opportunity to reflect on my own practice and make sure I am doing my best work. It is also joyful to watch others be successful and know that I've helped contribute to that." Teacher Mentorship Teacher Mentorship Program Program NEW NEW 19 By Heather Bray

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