A Mentor's Touch

I just finished a two day seminar for mentor teachers with Kathi Ruh. She is a retired teacher, principal, consultant,.... But the most important thing about Mrs. Ruh is that she's an awesome presenter with a heart for new teachers. I also have a very special place in my heart for new teachers. My first day as a new teacher was quite an ordeal and the following days and months didn't get any better. I had no mentor to turn to in my new school; I probably wouldn't have survived without my paraprofessional. Though she was a new paraprofessional, she had a heart for children and compassion for me. But through it all I still wanted to teach children. The second year was better and by the end of my fifth year of teaching I actually felt like I was teaching the children, but more importantly they were learning! When I was asked to become a mentor I jumped at the chance. I wanted to be able to help new teachers and give them a shoulder to cry on and support when they needed it. Through the years I've welcomed many new teachers into my classroom and more importantly made many friends along the way. So, the past two days have been a refresher course for me, I feel a renewed commitment to new teachers. I also feel very sad, Louise Tolbert, my mentor and the lead mentor teacher in our school system is retiring. She has made such a difference in the lives of children, new teachers and veteran teachers. She will be missed by us all. My hope for the new year is that I might in some way touch the life of a new teacher and give her the support she needs as she grows as a teacher.
With a mentor teacher's touch,
Linda

What does a teacher do on her vacation? My daughter (who is also a teacher), two granddaughters (one and a half and two and a half) went to see my cousin (who is also a teacher). Starla lives in Vicksburg, MS and normally when I visit, I immerse myself in the beautiful old buildings, museums and parks around the city. But this time my daughter and I made the wise decision just to visit. (Toddlers and historic items don't mix real well). So, when the girls were asleep, the conversation drifted where all teacher conversations go, to the "teacherly" life. We shared resources, told funny stories about our students, and shared our excitement about our summer break. But, we also started sharing our excitement about the new school year that will be here before we know it. That's the reason I'm a teacher, its not just a job, its a wonderful life. I hope I'll always feel the same way.
With a "teacher's touch,"
Linda