Mentor Teacher Internship Program

Purpose

The New York State Legislature has appropriated $2 million per year for the Mentor Teacher-Internship Program (MTIP) in support of defined efforts to mentor new teachers in public school districts and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) for the five-year period of 2023-2028.  Subject to annual funding by the Legislature, this program supports eligible public school districts and BOCES in developing and providing structured guidance and assistance by experienced, highly qualified teachers (mentors) to beginning teachers (interns) in their first or second year of teaching.  The Mentor Teacher Internship Program (MTIP) provides the opportunity for beginning teachers to broaden and enhance their classroom teaching and related skills while participating in a productive, supportive and collegial mentoring experience.  Research shows that when new teachers are mentored they are more likely to enhance their instructional skills and continue teaching in the classroom.

Essential components of projects supported through the Mentor Teacher Internship Program (MTIP) include but are not limited to:

• Joint development of the program by LEA school administration and local teachers' bargaining agents;
• Defined mentor selection process, involving the establishment of a mentor selection committee composed of a majority of highly qualified teachers selected by peers;
• Defined district/BOCES mentor training program predicated on best practices;
• Program focus on the mentor/intern relationship from inception, as the mentor guides the new teacher(s) toward a more reflective practice, the enhancement of multiple teaching and learning skills and heightening professional confidence;
• Assured release time for mentor and intern(s) to participate in mentor-related activities;
• Selection, development, and implementation of individualized activities for mentors and interns, as described and considered;
• Respective roles of coordinator and principal(s) described, reflected upon, and assessed;
• Program evaluation, both data-driven and anecdotal, including feedback from mentors, interns, coordinators, and other stakeholders.

In New York State, mentoring is essential for teachers who are new to the profession or to their teaching placements. Mentoring by trained mentors is one of the most effective supports and investments for helping teachers grow, remain in the profession, be successful and impact student learning. Mentoring connects educators in ways that promote professional learning while recognizing that mentees bring valuable knowledge and skills to the profession. Through ongoing partnerships, mentoring strengthens instructional practice and helps teachers become integral members of their school communities.

New York State Mentoring Standards

Mentoring in New York State:  https://vimeo.com/1150109365