"It may

not be academics; most times its some underlying problem," said Garrison.

"Sometimes students need someone neutral to talk to ... just need

for someone to show they're interested in their success. That's what a

mentor can do help a child succeed."

Garrison frequently

appeals to civic groups and other organizations to involve themselves

in public schools by encouraging their members to become mentors. The

school system's business partners, for example, are encouraged to get

to know a new partner school or maintain their participation in it through

serving in mentor programs.

"It's

one of the best ways to participate in the schools, because it's one-on-one

with a child," he said.

To be a mentor,

participants only have to come to one one-hour training session. The session

will provide an overview of the mentor program and ideas on how to interact

with a student.

Participants

will need to fill out information for a background check, and will have

to follow some basic school policies and procedures as part of their participation.

Some frequently asked questions about the mentor program include:

What is

a mentor ? A mentor is a trusted friend who is committed and dedicated

to making a difference in a child's life. A mentor creates experiences

that will help the child feel valued, supported and encouraged.

With what

kind of child does a mentor work ? All children can benefit from their

relationships with mentors. Since we don't have one mentor per student,

we have to be selective about who gets a mentor.

Children who

are assigned mentors are those who seem to need a little extra something.

Their parents or teachers may ask for someone to assist the child with

reading or writing, or they may seek someone who can help the child develop

hobbies.

The chosen

students may simply need the extra companionship of a responsible adult.

What are

a mentor's responsibilities ? A mentor accepts the child as he or she

is. A mentor becomes a special friend and builds self-esteem.

The mentor

and the child may spend an hour each week reading a book, playing an educational

game, or just talking. The student, the mentor and the teacher set the

agenda together.

How much

time is involved ? A mentor is asked to visit a child for only one

hour per week in the school setting. In order to avoid disappointments

to the child, mentors are asked to make a commitment to participate for

a minimum of one school year.

Are there

special qualifications/training to become a mentor ? Mentoring has

a place for you even if you don't have a special talent or skill.

Your hobby

or your work may lend excitement or have special appeal as a learning

experience for a student. Sharing your time and listening to your student

can have a powerful impact on both of your lives.

Who benefits ?

Everyone. Your involvement will bring you a great deal of personal satisfaction.

Mentoring will add to your life. You will make new friends and feel the

pleasure of helping others.

Most of all,

the students benefit. They receive more individual attention, and they

learn to work with and communicate with caring adults. At the same time,

they learn about their community and themselves.

For information

phone any school or Bonnie Garrison at 770-254-2737.