Barbara A. Roche, executive director of REBA, said that 10 of the alliance's 14 districts exhibited projects at the showcase. Roche was encouraged by the number of districts that exhibited their projects since it is a busy time of year for schools. Granby's receiving the highest score is a testimony to the level of involvement the district has with the alliance, Roche said. Schools Superintendent Francis L. Gougeon said the mentor plan helps keep new teachers in the district. The school district implemented the program in the past two years with additional state grant money.
Mentors receive a stipend for their work.
The district has 23 pairs of mentors and new teachers. The program will be funded by the school budget, beginning next year, Stevens said. The small size of the schools allows mentors to talk to new teachers every day. Used with permission.