Mentor Coordinator Report
End Of Year Mentor Event at 508 Coffee and Youth Lounge in Lynden
Stories & Quotes To Share:
Finding the Right Match
Not every mentor match is the right fit from the start. One student was initially paired with a mentor who was committed to building a relationship, but despite effort on both sides, something was missing for both of them. Conversations often felt forced, meetings lacked consistency, and they never developed a natural connection. The student attended meetings but remained quiet, reserved, and somewhat disengaged. I asked him several times if his mentor was a good fit and he said it was fine. However, at the start of the year, it was apparent to both the mentor and me that it just wasn’t a good fit.
The student and I mutually decided to dissolve the first match and I began again to seek out a mentor that would be a solid fit. After being matched with a new mentor in late February, the difference was apparent almost immediately. From their very first meeting, there was a natural ease between them. They laughed together, conversation flowed effortlessly, and it was clear the student was genuinely looking forward to their time together.
Since the new match, the student’s change of demeanor has been remarkable. He is more open, engaged, and joyful, demonstrating to me, once again, the powerful impact that the right mentor relationship can have on a student.
Mutual Respect
I really enjoyed this quote from the interview of one of our 10th grade mentees as it highlights so many important aspects of being an example to the younger generation – respect, open communication, constructive disagreement, healthy communication and healthy civil discourse. “I feel like we can respect each other and just see each other’s views and be able to talk through them without having to go to an argument.”
Highlights:
• May 27: Year end field trip at 508 Lynden- mentors met mentees at 508 for a year end celebration and it was a BLAST!
• May 26 – 29: Last week of mentor meeting for this year (snacks and Italian soda bar setup for those who could not attend 508 fieldtrip)
Upcoming:
• June 5: Graduation at 7 pm (9 seniors graduating)
• July 11: Be the One in Everson Main Street Parade at 11 am (mentors and mentees have all been invited)
Number of Current Matches: 38
Submitted by Missy – melissa.rus@nv.k12.wa.us