Title

A Mentoring Program for Early Care and Education Centers

Author

Susan Wilker, Concordia University, St. Paul

Date of Award

2006

Document Type

Non Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Education

Department

Education

Program

Early Childhood Education

Capstone Instructor

Barbara Schoenbeck

Second Reader

Kristine Spiess

Keywords

early childhood education, teacher training, mentorship

Abstract

The purpose of this program is to develop an on-site mentoring program for center based childcare centers. New staff members are often put in a classroom with minimal orientation. Some have little or no preservice education or experience. They feel isolated and overwhelmed by the sudden responsibilities and expectations. Too many good teachers leave the field due to lack of support and encouragement. Veteran teachers, those with several years of experience, who may be experiencing feelings of boredom, burnout, and lack of appreciation, may also decide to leave the field. The entire center suffers the consequences of this frequent turnover in staff. A mentoring program could motivate the experienced teacher to remain in the field by helping them learn to share their skills and knowledge. Mentoring programs could offer new teachers a practical and supportive way to overcome the challenges of that first year.

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