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NYS Mentor Teacher Internship Program

The New York State Legislature has appropriated funds supporting the development and implementation of mentor teacher-internship programs in local school districts and for instructional programs at boards of cooperative educational services (BOCES).  Funding for this program is subject to yearly approval by the Legislature.

This program enables experienced teachers (mentors) in a district or BOCES to provide guidance and support to beginning teachers (interns) in their first or second year of teaching.   Research shows that when new teachers are mentored they are more likely to continue teaching.  The mentoring program provides the opportunity for beginning teachers to enhance their skill while participating in a productive and supportive experience.

Essential components of these programs include but are not limited to:

• Joint development of these programs by school administration and local teachers' bargaining agents.
  
  
• Program focus on the mentor/intern relationship which develops through the project year, as the mentor guides the new teacher to self-assessment, professional confidence and independence
  
  
• Release time for mentor and interns to participate in mentoring activities
  
  
• Defined mentor selection process, including establishment of a mentor selection committee
  
  
• Mentor training
  
  
• Described activities for mentors and interns
  
  
• Described role of principals in the program
  
  
• Program evaluation

Ninety-three districts are implementing mentor teacher internships in the 2008-2009 school year.