It includes courses for both new and veteran teachers. Beginning teachers learn about corrective discipline, working with parents, teacher stress, accommodating student differences and other topics. Swartz said the Heartland program has surpassed expectations. New teachers say they are benefiting from a close working relationship with an experienced teacher and the classes designed specifically for beginning educators. The state's area education agency staff expect more school districts will become involved in mentoring programs in the coming years.
Some districts run their own programs.
Others are looking at starting their own or becoming part of an AEA mentoring project. We've had a very positive response from the school districts in our program. I anticipate we'll hear from more schools. Iowa's 15 area education agencies provide programs, services and resources for students, families and educators.