January is designated as National Mentoring Month and January 17 is International Mentoring Day. Holyoke Public Schools encourages its staff and Holyoke city employees to consider becoming mentors for Holyoke eighth-graders at Metcalf and Sullivan Schools as well as Holyoke STEM Academy.
The HPS mentoring program aims to create a supportive environment where students can benefit from the guidance of dedicated mentors, fostering trusting relationships that contribute to their transition into high school.
Mentors are esteemed school community members who are committed to providing invaluable student support. Through weekly meetings, mentors and their mentees delve into discussions on topics of mutual interest, creating a space for shared experiences and meaningful connections.
Student participation in the mentoring program is entirely voluntary and requires the consent of parents or guardians. HPS believes that this initiative not only enhances academic preparedness but also nurtures personal growth, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Parents, guardians, and students alike are encouraged to embrace this opportunity and the positive impact it can have on the holistic development of middle school students.
Now in its second year, the HPS mentoring program is one of a variety of ways students are supported through their middle school years. Mass Mentors provided initial training to adult participants.
Mentors spend time one day each week working with students at the following times (specific days TBD):
Metcalf - 10-10:35 a.m.
Sullivan - 12:55-1:26 p.m.
Holyoke STEM Academy - 11:50-12:25 p.m.
The HPS mentorship program provides support and resources for all middle school students. It's free, it's fun, and it can really help! Register here if you would like to mentor middle school students.
What is a mentor?
In general, a mentor is someone who offers guidance, motivation, emotional support, and role modeling. Under this program, HPS mentors help participating students understand what high school will be like and what they will need to know and do to have the best high school experiences.
How the mentorship program works:
Students are paired with a mentor who is an HPS or City of Holyoke employee.
Students meet with their mentors every week during lunch for fun, inspiring chats. What participants talk about is up to them to decide.
Mentors help students prepare for the transition from middle school to high school.