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West Jeff teacher mentors adapt to new licensing rules
(by Linda Dillman, staff writer - March 09, 2010)
A friendly face and guiding hand make transitions easier for new teachers, whether they are fresh out of college or arriving with years of experience.
For new teachers in the Jefferson Local School District, mentoring takes place in and out of the classroom, with fellow instructors lending their knowledge throughout the year to acclimate newbies to the profession and the district.
However, with the implementation of House Bill 1, the state is creating a new licensure system for teachers that impacts the way mentoring programs are structured at the district level. Paula Nance, Jefferson Local’s mentoring coordinator, told school board members changes are afoot in focus and name.
“We’ve always had a mentoring program, but now it is a Resident Educator Transition Program, which will be in effect until June 2011,” said Nance during a March 8 board meeting at Norwood Elementary.
“Entry year teachers are considered resident educators and mentored under new guidelines. The program includes instructional mentoring from state-trained mentors. The mentor and the superintendent will now sign off on the resident educator’s license application, updating it to a five-year license.”
The program is a two-year bridge between the previous program and a four-year Resident Educator Program. Assessment tools include a collaborative log between the teacher and their mentor, and the program is funded through professional development.
“There are a lot of changes,” continued Nance, who noted that Jefferson Local is one of a few districts that mentor teachers who have taught in other districts. “We’re making sure we’re doing what we’re supposed to do, but there are still a lot of questions. It’s all still up in the air.”
OGT Testing Schedule
High school Principal Dave Metz reported that Ohio Graduation Test exams begin March 15. As a result, school for students not involved in testing will be on a two-hour delay all week, but buses will run on their regular schedule.
Students who ride the bus to school and are not involved in testing will go to their homeroom until testing is finished for the day. High school students who follow the two-hour delay must find their own way to school.
“This (testing schedule) is for all sophomores and juniors and seniors who need certain tests,” Metz said. “If a parent has any questions, they can call the high school office.”
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