J.P. Prezzavento - The Bits and Bytes of Education:

This school year I embarked upon a new journey in my teaching career:  serving as a cooperating teacher to two of my department's three student teachers.  At first I was reluctant to take on student teachers because I wasn't sure if I was cut out for job of helping two pre-service teachers in what will be one of their final preparations before they get their own classrooms.  However, after a colleague and close friend reminded me serving as a cooperating teacher is one of the most valuable forms of professional development , I realized that this was an amazing opportunity for me not only to offer PD to the students assigned to me, but also this would be an opportunity for me to grow as a professional. Throughout the semester I have or will do the following activities with my student teachers: I introduced the student teachers to everyone they need to know in the building including principals, secretaries, department chairs, and custodians. I created a structured ...

I am excited to say that I have been given the opportunity to mentor a new English teacher in my building .  Since I found out the good news I have been thinking back to my first  year in the classroom and what helpful hints my mentor gave me, what additional help I needed, and how I can help a new teacher have a smooth transition from student teaching to having his own classroom. http://bit.ly/p81udg The purpose of this post is to share my ideas for my mentoring program and get feedback on my ideas and suggestions from experienced teacher mentors and new teachers who are adjusting to the teaching profession. My Mentoring Plan Introduce the new teacher to all of the building's faculty and staff member. Introducing new teachers to their colleagues is important so that they can  begin to make the valuable connections that will benefit them for their entire career in the building.  Ensure the new teacher is able to access his email, district web portal, a...