Faculty Information

This information is for faculty who work with early childhood teachers and students  and/or who are teaching ECED 2120/2121 and/or ECED 2130/2131.  In addition to any support you offer through your coursework, the Mentor Network provides additional support to those new to the field of early childhood.   Faculty are encouraged to apply with the Mentor Network. 

About our Mentors

Once certified by the state, mentor participation in the network is twofold:

1. a commitment to creating and maintaining mentoring relationships, and
2. participating in a monthly, professional learning community facilitated by a lead mentor to build supportive relationships, develop leadership skills, and improve their mentorship skills.

During the mentorship, mentors provide individualized support based upon student/mentee needs. Some examples include, but are not limited to:

• Orienting the mentee to their classroom and school (paperwork, events, policies, parents, etc.)
• Observing the student (in person or virtually) and providing meaningful feedback
• Supporting reflective conversations with the mentee at key points during the mentorship
• Reflecting on their mentees’ experiences in the classroom and using those reflections to scaffold the mentee’s learning
• Responding to mentee questions in a professional, supportive, and timely manner
• Striving to maintain unconditional positive regard towards their mentee
• Supporting the mentee’s transition from practicum student to independent teacher