It's May! Mentoring Monday - Looking Back

by Katie 6 months, 2 weeks ago

Hello friends, 

May is here! I cannot believe another school year is about to close. Has this year gone by so quickly for you, as well? Our final Mentoring Monday of this school year allows for us all to reflect. As you look back on this past year, consider the Mentoring Roles and Competencies. Which roles or specific competencies do you feel you have grown in this year? Which roles or competencies are you looking forward to working on next year? 

I am coming up on my anniversary as the mentoring coordinator with USBE. One area I would like to improve on is my outreach. I don't know if you are receiving these discussion posts or not. I would like to provide an opportunity for working mentors to collaborate and, at times, commiserate with others across the state. I look forward to problem solving ways to improve this area of our state mentoring plan. 

A few things that I am excited about are: 

  • The MASTER pilot program grant (HB 431) 
  • The State Mentoring Advisory Committe
  • Mentoring Office Hours (coming in September) 
  • Presenting on Mentoring at URSA and Show Up for Teachers 
  • High Quality Mentoring Collaborative (Summer sessions) 

If you are interested in more information about any of these projects or events. Please feel free to reach out to me. I am here to support you as a mentor! 

Katie.Jones@schools.utah.gov

Kathryn Watkins 6 months, 2 weeks ago

Hi Katie, I am able to see notifcations of new posts in my district email. 

I feel like I have grown in setting boundaries and becoming more of a mentor than an instructor. One key aspect of this evolution has been my growth in setting boundaries. By establishing clear boundaries, I've fostered an environment of mutual respect and understanding. It's allowed me to navigate relationships with greater clarity and authenticity, leading to more meaningful interactions and growth for both myself and those I mentor. Embracing this role has been a testament to my personal growth and commitment to nurturing others' development. Here's to continuing this journey of mentorship with empathy, wisdom, and grace.

These new mentoring things sound wonderful!  

Katie 6 months, 1 week ago

Katie, 

Thank you for your reply, especially the feedback. I am glad you are receiving these discussion posts. I hope to engage more mentors next year. I appreciate your comments concerning setting boundaries. This is not an easy thing to do, especially when we are working with other adults. However, it is clear you can see the value in doing so and that it has enhanced your experience as a mentor. I hope you are able to continue your mentoring work next year. You have been a valuable asset to our mentoring community. Please let me know if you would like to participate in any of these mentoring experiences or events. As always, contact me for any questions or concerns. Have a wonderful summer!