The state of Kansas requires that all first-year and second-year teachers be assigned a mentor. Mentor responsibilities include meeting regularly with the teacher, observing their classroom and providing feedback, facilitating opportunities to observe other teachers, helping analyze data to inform instruction, sharing resources, brainstorming new ideas, and engaging in reflective practice.

In USD 373, we have two mentor teachers: Gail Pryce and Kenna Graber. Learn more about them:

1. What is your teaching background that led to being a New Mentor Teacher?

Kenna-  I taught for years in Prek-2 classrooms. I was an instructional coach as well as an Adaptive Schools Trainer, both of which helped prepare me for the role of New Teacher Mentor. Being a Robotics mentor at the high school gave me some insight into high school students and just being a mom has also helped  as my own children are in the same life stage as many of the new teachers I work with which helps me in understanding where they may be in their own life outside of school.

Gail-    Teaching is challenging as well as rewarding.  When the school district made the decision to hire full-release mentors,  I thought it was an excellent idea; placing mentors in schools where they would purposely support, advise, and encourage new teachers. I was spending time with pre-service teachers as an adjunct education professor and felt being a mentor would be a seamless extension of those classes.  Although I have been in the classroom for quite a few years, I have not forgotten what it felt like to be a first year teacher.  Those memories, a multitude of experiences, and a heart dedicated to helping led me to be a mentor.

2. What is a typical day like as a New Teacher Mentor? 

Being a mentor is similar to being a teacher because we also have a new group every year.  Just like in the classroom,  the day can change at any moment  based on a specific teacher or student need. It varies from tasks like meeting one on one with teachers, observing and giving feedback, modeling, team teaching, supporting small groups or specific students, finding resources, providing training or whatever other needs might arise. No two days are alike!

3.  What are the benefits to new teachers in having an in-district mentor?

We know more about the inner workings of the district, expectations, curriculum and being in Newton we are more accessible and timely when it comes to providing feedback, resources, and responding to needs and requests. We also get to know students and can help track their progress as they move through our district – as well as provide information to teachers about what has or has not been effective for specific students in previous years. We strive to  build relationships with teachers and administrators. This is beneficial when advocating for staff and students. It is also helpful as we have the opportunity to take new teachers to observe our own veteran staff.

4.  Why is this job rewarding to you personally?

Each day we are given the opportunity to collaborate with new teachers and help them grow professionally so they can meet the needs of the students in our district.  When teachers know more, their students do as well.  It is fun to watch teachers and students be successful.  Each day we are given the opportunity to collaborate with new teachers. We enjoy taking new teachers to observe the exemplary practices of our veteran teachers. We love learning from our colleagues. The best part  is probably when a teacher says, “you have impacted me and helped me become better as an educator”

5. What is your advice to students who are considering a career in education?

Get into as many classrooms as often as you can.  Observe and volunteer before you have a classroom of your own! Spend time with a variety of age groups and subject areas before you decide which path you want to take. 

When you do start your teaching career don’t be afraid to ask questions! Take every opportunity to get feedback from your administrator and colleagues. Education is a career where you never stop learning.  Finally, of course, we would recommend you spend time with your mentor or an educator you admire.