The mission of the AISD Mentor Teacher Program is to develop and retain novice teachers by providing professional learning experiences in a supportive environment through the Texas Beginning Educator’s Support System.

The AISD Mentor Teacher Program provides professional learning opportunities, guidance and support for beginning teachers. Each campus has a Lead Mentor Teacher Contact (LMTC) committed to carrying out the necessary components of effective ongoing induction. In addition, some campuses with high percentages of English language learners have a Bilingual Lead Mentor Teacher Contact (BLMTC). LMTCs and BLMTCs work collaboratively to meet the needs of new teachers on these campuses.

These educators are trained in new teacher development, the standards-based Texas Beginning Educator’s Support System (TxBESS) and effective classroom management practices. LMTCs/BLMTCs earn a stipend for coordination of campus-based mentor and new teacher training and support, development of a Campus Mentoring Plan, and new teacher support groups. These individuals also attend monthly district seminars and oversee the documentation of mentoring activities.

AISD Mentors provide formal support for 1st & 2nd year teachers. Careful attention is given to training mentors and providing assistance for them throughout the mentoring process. Mentors and new teachers engage in a learning-centered relationship, which may include classroom observations, problem-solving, book/ article studies, and other opportunities. Mentor teachers and new teachers talk confidentially about challenges they may be facing in their classrooms. Mentors receive a stipend for their guidance and support in maximizing the effectiveness and success of their new colleagues.