Missouri Teacher Certification requires that beginning teacher support systems include a two-year mentor program. In Rockwood School District, all new teachers are assigned a mentor, including those new to Rockwood with experience. Mentors serve the functions listed below:

• Assist with establishment of an Action Plan focused on Classroom Management (first year) and Assessment for Learning (second year and/or new to the district with experience).
• Demonstrate effective teaching techniques.
• Provide direct and informal assistance.
• Serve as a professional role model for the beginning teacher.
• Attend mentor training.

The building principal is responsible for identifying and seeking teachers to serve as mentors. Mentors are required to have three years' successful teaching experience, be exemplary teachers in their content area/grade level, and assist the new teacher establish and implement an Action Plan. Release time is provided for mentors to work with their mentees as needed. Mentors are required to submit to the Director of Professional Development a series of checklists indicating completion of their responsibilities and assigned duties.

Resources that support Rockwood's mentor program are as follows:

• Mentor Fact Sheet
• Mentor Responsibilities
• Mentor/Mentee Checklists for Beginning Teachers:
• First Semester of Year One

  Second Semester of Year One
• Mentor Checklists for Year Two and Experienced Teachers
  First Semester of Year Two
  • Second Semester of Year Two
• Action Plan Templates for:
  • Classroom Management (Beginning Teachers)
  • Assessment for Learning (Teachers with Experience)