Frequently Asked Questions Continued

7. What type of guidance will my child receive? - He/she has never tutored before.
All mentors will be invited to attend orientation prior to the start of the sessions. This orientation will take place on Tuesday, November 29 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the auditorium at the Higgins Middle School.

At the orientation meeting, Jessica Theriault, the program advisor, will provide mentors and their families with an overview of the program, how/why it was created, and information regarding the recognition it has received. She will cover expectations she has for the mentors (attendance, attitude, commitment) and will explain how she will support them throughout the year.

Sheila Bell, an elementary educator, will coach the mentors on how to work with children from a teaching perspective. She will provide techniques for breaking the ice, motivating students, and information on how to be a good mentor.

Students who are unable to attend will receive a separate orientation during the school day from Jessica Theriault.

Each elementary school will have faculty volunteers and/or parent/guardian advisors to assist during sessions.

Periodically Jessica Theriault will hold sessions after school at Higgins. During these sessions, mentors will gather to discuss their experiences and get assistance from one another and Jessica Theriault.

8. Why has it taken several months to put this program in place?
Last year this program was piloted at the Welch Elementary School with three mentors and three students. We only hoped to grow the program by 7 students this year and were surprised to receive over 100 applications from Higgins students to volunteer. This wonderful response enabled us to expand the program throughout Peabody. An expansion of that size required a lot of thought and preparation. Mentors were assigned to schools. Transportation issues were addressed and resolved. Mentor expectations were established. Grant proposals were written and submitted. Orientation was planned, and volunteers were sought. Jessica Theriault is an experienced after school program manager and knows how careful planning can help eliminate problems and makes future years smoother. She is grateful for your patience and looks forward to working with all of you.