Role of a Mentor
Thank you for your commitment to mentoring new leaders in our profession. Your volunteer efforts create a safe, supportive environment where emerging professionals can learn and grow with confidence. The guidance you provide isn't just valuable — it's essential to maintaining the strength and integrity of our field for generations to come.
Through your year-long commitment, you'll not only transform your mentee's professional journey, but also discover unexpected insights that enrich your own practice — creating a truly reciprocal learning relationship.
Make the Most of Your Mentor Experience
To ensure your mentee experiences the benefits of the mentoring program and meets the requirements specified in § chapter 284A.5, make plans to
- attend statewide meetings together;
- initiate weekly check-ins;
- meet face-to-face (or virtually) once a month to allow for extended conversation and reflection;
- visit each other's schools at least once throughout the year;
- complete monthly data collection tool;
- maintain confidentiality*; and
- prioritize participation in the program.
*The mentor should not engage in conversations with a mentee’s supervisor regarding issues related to the mentee’s performance or abilities unless the mentor is concerned about illegal, unethical or immoral behavior.
FAQs
SAI provides an initial training and overview video, a one-hour virtually hosted nuts and bolts session, a website with resources and tools, a blog post published several times a year, and access to SAI Staff with questions and suggestions.