It is a comprehensive program designed to allow high school students to continue developing leadership skills by mentoring an elementary or middle school student.
Younger students identified to participate in the program have an academic, social or emotional need recognized by their teachers and guidance counselors.
Participating high school students have completed a youth leadership program or taken part in a Career Technical Student Organization that emphasizes leadership skills.
This program allows these students to put what they have learned into action by giving back to students in their school district.
Students meet once a month with their mentors for eight months beginning in October and ending in May. Since it was launched in 2010, more than 688 students have participated.
In 2010-2011, a total of 120 students were involved – 60 mentors and 60 mentees. In 2012, there were 274 students, which included 134 mentors and 134 mentees. This year, there are 294 students with 147 mentors and 147 mentees.
Once mentors (students) understand their role, they attend orientation with a guidance counselor about the importance of their role and learn required guidelines. An overview of the program, timeline, expected outcomes and previous feedback is part of the discussion.
“The program has had a positive impact on all students participating, mentors and mentees alike,” said Katherine “Katie” M. Thomas, Career, Technical and Agricultural Education director for the Polk School District.
She emphasized that students are the heart of the program and efforts are made to assure each participant meets objectives necessary for positive youth development.
Kelley McLendon, a counselor at Rockmart Middle School, believes the program teaches students how to build appropriate and beneficial relationships.
“At our school, students have had positive things to say about our mentoring program,” McLendon said.