ABCs of School-Based Mentoring

• NCJ Number: 189141
• Date Published: September 2000
• Length: 96 pages
• Agencies: OJJDP-Sponsored
• Award: FY 2003 OJJDP DISCRETIONARY CONTINUATION PROGRAMS - TRAINING

Annotation

This technical assistance guide provides information for youth-serving organizations that want to implement new school-based mentoring programs or strengthen existing mentoring programs.

Abstract

The manual draws on promising practices developed by organizations around the country and on initial research findings about this relatively new approach to mentoring to explain the steps of forming partnerships with schools. It also explains how to design a program; recruit, screen, and train mentors; match mentors with youth; and supervise and support the match after it is underway. The discussion emphasizes that a strong infrastructure is necessary if the adult-youth relationships are to be effective and are to make a positive difference in the lives of youth. The final chapter summarizes practices for strengthening the partnership and program’s role in the schools, including knowing the school culture, policies, and procedures ad being sure that mentors are aware and sensitive to the school culture. The manual also emphasizes the needs for three-way communication among the organization, the school, and the mentor; for addressing and resolving problems as soon as they arise; and for recognizing that partnerships between organizations often depend on particular individuals within each organization and require rebuilding if a crucial individual leaves. Checklists and appended sample forms, agreements, and related program materials