Mentoring: The Best Gift of All

Ever thought of mentoring? After  having a student teacher for half the school year last year, and having an intern this full school year, I feel energized and rejuvenated.   Having the experience of being with a new teacher as she "learns the ropes"  is one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences ever. Here are some things I learned this year from working with the incredible Miss H.

1. There's a rationale for everything we do and every way we do it when we teach. When you have an intern, you reflect and share about all of your decisions.
2. We don't have to be perfect, but always reflecting, striving for excellence and remaining committed to what's best for kids.
3. Humor goes a long way. Being able to look across the room at another adult during a challenging kid moment and find humor in it gives strength and builds experience for a future challenge.
4. Support is vital. Mutual support is even better. Teaching can be isolating so we must reach out.
5. Communication is priceless. Open, respectful dialogue creates trust.
6. We are always learning from each other: experienced teachers, new teachers, school staff parents, kids. 
7. There is no hierarchy of experts: we are all learners.
8. Everyone is on his/her own path: we must accept people where they are and nurture their strengths so they can flourish.
9. Relationship is everything.
10. We are never finished learning, growing, crying, celebrating. Savor, savor, savor each day as an opportunity to grow and learn. 

Thank you Miss Harrington for the opportunity to spend a wonderful year together, learning, laughing, crying, and celebrating the joys of our passionate commitment to kids.
If you have ever mentored, either in teaching or another arena, please share what it's done for your growth in the comments section. We learn so much from each other's stories!