Under a new program that launches soon, HPS district staff have volunteered to serve as mentors to eighth-grade students from Peck and Holyoke Middle School to help them prepare for the transition to high school in the fall. The program kicks off on April 25 at both schools with a special event so participating students can meet each other and their mentors.
Families of eligible students have been provided information about the mentoring program, as well as information about how interested students can register. District staff were notified earlier this year of the opportunity to mentor students, and those who volunteered will be offered training and support to help ensure successful experiences for all.
What is a mentor?
In general, a mentor is someone who offers guidance, motivation, emotional support, and role modeling. Under this program, HPS mentors will 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 decide with their families if joining the mentorship program is right for them, and if so they will submit an application by April 24.
Each student will be paired with a district employee who will serve as a mentor.
Participants will meet with their mentors every other week during lunch for fun, inspiring chats. What participants talk about will be up to them to decide.
Mentors will help students prepare for the transition from middle school to high school—and maybe even help secure a summer job (for students ages 14+).