After School Mentoring FAQ

What is the purpose of After School mentoring?

The mission of the After School Mentoring Program is to foster positive mentoring relationships between students in St. Mary’s County Public Schools and members of the community and to provide supported, safe, and inspiring environments in which these matches can cultivate the potential of each youth.

Why mentoring?

Because it works! Educational research has shown that mentoring is extremely effective in increasing academic performance and positive social interactions, and you asked for it! A very common request is for a quality mentoring program, and we’ve worked hard to develop one that will meet the needs of our students.

How does After School mentoring operate?

After School Mentoring carefully matches each student with a mentor who meets at his or her school for an hour and a half every week throughout the school year. With the support of a school Site Leader, mentors and students work together to help build social, emotional, and academic skills. Currently, After School Mentoring is running programs in most elementary schools in the system.

How are students selected?

At each school, the Site Leader consults with teachers, counselors, administrators, nurse, and other staff to develop a list of students who are most likely to benefit from the program.

How will students be notified that they have been selected to participate in After School Mentoring?

Each student will receive a letter of congratulations as well as a permission form to be completed by his/her parent(s)/guardian(s).

Who are the mentors? How will they be selected?

Mentors are business professionals, retirees, staff members, military personnel, secondary students, college students, and other caring and responsible community members. They will be recruited by the school Site Leaders and the Program Assistant, but everyone is encouraged to apply.

When and where will the mentoring take place?

Mentoring will take place after school once a week for an hour and a half at the student’s homeschool. This will ensure that the student will not miss any part of his/her academic day.

How will students get home?

Most students will be provided with free bus transportation home after their weekly mentoring session.  Some schools may elect to use a parent pick-up system for their after school mentoring programs.

How can I become a part of After School Mentoring?

Contact Terri Cox at (301)475-5511 ext. 32257, or complete an online application.