Mentor Manor!
The End of the Year is Quickly Approaching.....
Glenn Dubcak (AMAT) and 3rd Grade Mentee Zane Taylor from Bluebonnet Trail Elem.
Brook Morgan (Samsung) and Jose Miguel Rivera (4th grade) at Decker Elem
Dr. Renee Nieh (Samsung) with her 5th grade mentee Jennifer Rodriguez-Bravo
Make Your Final Visits this Year Positive and Impactful!
The closure phase of the mentoring relationship presents the greatest challenge to individuals involved in partnerships. Students that have previously felt abandonment or had negative experiences in their life with this, such as through divorce or death, may have difficulty with this phase. It is a necessary step for a healthy relationship and mentors can begin this conversation by discussing 'next steps' at the next couple of mentoring sessions.
1. Your Mentee's Feelings
Explain to your mentee that you have a couple of visits left in the school year. Ask him/her about their feelings and plans for summer break. Some of your mentee's feelings may include: fear, anxiety, excitement, joy, sadness. It is very important to explain to your mentee your that it is normal to experience a variety of emotions at the same time.
2. Gentle honesty, it is the best policy!
If you can return.....
Great! Please tell your mentee you will return a week or two after labor day in September.
If you are unable to return to the mentoring relationship.....
Tell your mentee honestly and explain that it has nothing to do with him/her. It is important to be honest and keep it simple. If you know you can't travel to their (next) school (because it is across town) or you are moving, just let your mentee know your plan. Explain to your mentee that we all have life changes (or seasons in our lives) and with this, life happens. Please explain that your inability to return is not because of him/her. Many students take things personally because of the stage of growth and development they are in currently.
3. Talk about the school year that you have spent together....
This is a great time to discuss the growth (physically and emotionally) that has occurred during the year together. Other topics that may be helpful: challenges he/she has overcome (such as the homework they used to not do) or the basketball game they have perfected with you at their side on the playground.
4. Remind your mentee to continue to set personal goals....
Summer is an excellent time for students to read daily, or practice high quality math apps such as First In Math. Talk to them about your goals for summer such as exercising more or enjoying the outdoors more.
Mentoring is truly a gift that you have shared with your mentee! Remember, you are the gift....and do not feel that you need to purchase an item for your mentee. Your time and presence are priceless!
Decker Elem. Natalie Rivera (3rd) and Shervone Mayes (Samsung)
Michael Perez (Samsung) and mentee Valentin Olivares (4th grade)
Jesus Olivares (student) with his Mentor Joseph Avila (Samsung), Mayra Hernandez CIS Manager, and Ms. Zavala, Teacher
Quietly working together....
Mentors James Lott, Spencer Borschke & Alan Stene with 4th graders Prince Will Ullman, Kamrin Best and Tyson Owens
"CHEEEEEEZE!"
The MISD Mentoring Department wishes you a safe and relaxing summer!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS~
Please call your student's campus so as to ensure that students are not already on field trips or absent. We want all your visits to count!
You can always check in with Becky Resendes at 512.278.4257 re: attendance or schedules.
Last day of class: Friday, June 5th
Thank you for all you do! Truly, your work with our students is priceless!
You are changing a life one mentor visit at a time. We cannot do our work without you!
Events – Manor Independent School District
Please check this link for the latest district and school information. www.manorisd.net
Manor ISD's District Mentoring Program office at Pioneer Crossing Elementary
11300 Samsung Blvd
Austin, TX 78741
cindy.brackermeyer@manorisd.net 512 278 4257 manorisd.net