School Mentoring

Our Philosophy

Connect Society's School Mentoring Project is dedicated to the belief that a child's self-confidence and motivation will be positively influenced by the one-on-one attention provided by a mentor.

We believe in Keith Geiger's description of a mentor as an adult who "has time for a child, who cares about that child, and who believes in that child."

Our Goals

• To enrich a child's learning experience.
• To provide an environment where the child's home language is respected and understood.
• To promote friendship between the student and mentor.

Our Focus

The mentoring program is directed at elementary school children who are deaf parented.

What We've Heard

Each year we seek feedback from teachers, asking for their impressions of the success of the mentoring program. Here is what some of them had to say:

"My student felt special when her mentor came. Her face glowed!"
"I think the mentor's total acceptance of my student contributed to her positive attitude about school. She seemed calm, settled, and content immediately after the visits."
"Having a mentor was a boost to my student's self-esteem! He felt valued by his mentor."
"Thank you! This program has really benefited my student!"

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is the mentor's role?
   The mentor and child will meet for one hour a week at school during the regular school year. Through a variety of activities that build literacy skills, the mentor and child develop a trusting, respectful relationship.
2. What can you tell me about the mentors?
   The mentors have a sign-language background and are recruited, screened, and trained in a partnership betweenConnect Society Big Brothers and Big Sisters Society of Edmonton and Area. Parents have the opportunity to be involved with the process.
3. How do I match my child with a mentor?
   If you would like your child to take part in the mentoring program, you can contact  Connect Society.
   
4. How do I become a volunteer mentor?
   If you would like to become a mentor, you can contact Connect Society to learn more about the program.
    

ENQUIRIES

Enquiries regarding the School Mentoring Program can be directed to:

School Mentoring Program

11342-127 Street
Phone: 454-9581 Ext. 233 V/tty
TTY Answering Machine: (780)455-8283
Fax: 447-5820
Email: reception@connectsociety.org

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