2011-2012 Information

Mentor Nomination Forms (PDF)

Beginning Teacher Mentor Information Packet (PDF)

Our Theme: Making a Difference

We are so glad you've decided to "come grow with us"! The first year of teaching is a difficult challenge. If you are currently in your first year of teaching, the graph probably applies to you. Coincidently, you are most certainly not alone! Whether you are currently feeling extremely overwhelmed or abundantly triumphant, other first-year teachers are going through the same thing.

What are the basics of the mentoring program in FISD?

Who: All beginning teachers, new to the profession, will receive support from an experienced mentor teacher to assist them as they begin their teaching careers.

What: In Frisco ISD we are implementing a mentoring program that combines campus-based and district-level support can reduce attrition and enhance student achievement by providing to them dedicated, experienced teachers.

When: Beginning prior to the start of school and ending in May.

Why:To provide the minimum expectations for supporting beginning teachers. Without mentor support, it is estimated that over 32% of Texas new teachers hired will leave the profession within five (5) years.*

How:The district is the steward of the program; the Beginning Teacher Liaison is the focal point for the support of mentors and beginning teachers as well as the on-going monitoring of these relationships; and Mentors provide sustained, campus support to beginning teachers. 

*The Cost of Underpaying Texas Teachers. March 2006.  Special Report, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Beginning Teacher Model

The Texas State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) TxBESS (Texas Beginning Educator Support System) Framework is the mentoring model used in Frisco ISD. This framework, which consists of performance standards and a developmental continuum, illustrates how beginning teachers develop the knowledge and skills that comprise the complex act of teaching.

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What topics will be addressed with the mentoring program?

At a minimum, the following four clusters:

Cluster 1: Planning for Learner-centered Instruction

Cluster 2: A Classroom Environment That Promotes Equity, Excellence, and Learning

Cluster 3: Instruction and Communication

Cluster 4: Professionalism