Empowering Growth Through Leadership
The Early Childhood Mentor Network provides high-quality learning experiences that foster reflective practice, leadership, mentorship, and connection among early childhood professionals. Lead Mentors are essential to this mission, offering professional development and structured support to educators.
Ashley’s Journey as a Lead Mentor
Ashley’s experience highlights the power of mentorship. “The Early Childhood Mentor Network has helped me develop skills in presenting and collaborating with colleagues with diverse experiences and perspectives,” she shared. Her background in music and special education, combined with a commitment to high expectations and individualized support, aligns seamlessly with the Mentor Network’s values.
Building Connections Through Reflective Practice
Ashley emphasizes the importance of organization, intentionality, and empathy in mentorship. “Being intentional means effectively supporting mentees. Organization and structure create space for meaningful conversations and connections,” she explained. She models reflective practices through monthly meetings and provides tools to encourage growth among her mentees.
Witnessing Growth and Purpose
For Ashley, the most rewarding part of mentorship is seeing her mentees grow their professional confidence and effectiveness. “It’s exciting to be part of that moment when professionals have a lightbulb and see the purpose in their work beyond childcare,” she said.
Join the Early Childhood Networks Team as a Lead Mentor
The Lead Mentor role offers comprehensive training, ongoing support, and opportunities for collaboration with expert peers and fellow mentors across New Mexico. This position involves facilitating eight monthly cohort-based, community-of-practice meetings to guide and empower mentors in their professional growth. Applications open in April 2025. Learn more at ecnetworks.org.
