#BFC530 Archive
The Breakfast Club – #BFC530 – is a 15 minute, 1 question Twitter chat every weekday. We chat in 4 timezones Mon-Fri – 5:30am Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific Times. The mission of BFC is to empower participants to make a difference in education by engaging in consistent reflective practice in a supportive community that inspires and challenges one another.
Tuesday March 22, 2016
Today's : What might help mentee/new T who's resistant to engage in collab relationship w mentor? - https://t.co/soB93jKpFy
Good morning, all! Ben here from the mountains of North Carolina. Physics & math teacher.
There is a chat in the middle of the night I am afraid I really wouldn't go back to sleep
I posed today's Q-am a mentor & sometimes run into mentees who don't engage-tried offering other mentor for better match-no go
Good morning Lori from OH good to see everyone!!
Good morning . Stacey from NJ.
We should have all hopped on the Twitter. I was sanding a table in the wee hrs. What else to do at 2 AM?
Wish I was a coffee drinker this morning!
Thanks for your book advice !
I will drink a cup for you.
Good morning, Friends! ☕️
Break was busy getting ready for the new , but good.
Good morning . Back to school after an unexpected 1st day of spring snow day!
Brian from Mass.
Good morning everyone~! David MS Principal from VA joining for Tuesday!
Great Q..I don't have the answer..I had one mentee who completely discouraged me from taking any others.
Good morning excited for today I get to walk around in my new building that's under construction
Aw, that stinks. Hate those kinds of nights.
Ask what mentee hopes to gain from the mentoring relationship...try to help him/her be reflective about the process and benefits
Thanks Ben! It's near & dear to my heart. Want to help all T's succeed but it sometimes tough when not engagement!
Have them simply come and watch you teach...low stakes, non-threatening, just modeling best practices. That will start a good convo.
Christina here Good morning!
Thanks! Feeling better already! 'Connected' learners!
First =of all, picking the RIGHT mentor is critical
Honestly we should not leave these things up to change, Mentees and New Ts should have to follow a system that has them collaborate.
Sad. You were a great one, I'm sure!
It's a good question. As the district new teacher facilitator, it does occur# https://t.co/F9QFhFsfnB
I posed today's Q-am a mentor & sometimes run into mentees who don't engage-tried offering other mentor for better match-no go
Good morning . I really need this one today. Current struggle for me.
Oh my...I was up at 3:30!!! Twitter, reading, then exercise!
A ♡2♡ ~ why we believe & practice collaboration and I would try to figure out why the person is reluctant. https://t.co/9HcJAOGBtz
tomorrow What might help mentee/new T who's resistant to engage in collab relationship w mentor? - https://t.co/WX2PKCEF3V
GM ! Josh lead learner from NJ. Great topic today b/c I have had to deal with this issue.
As a new teacher i was given way to much freedom. I wish I was given more structure.
If you are mentor, be vulnerable first. Seek authentic advice from mentee. Open door to your heart first. https://t.co/mD6QJW1Aec
If mentee believes he/she has all the "answers" and doesn't see any benefit from the relationship, I'm not sure what can be done.
I am so happy to see all of you! My heart is SINGING! Can't even focus to answer the Q!
Mentor/mentee match is critical to its success.
I agree. New T shouldn't be making the rules. There should be a system in place.
Good morning! Nicole from NJ here, but walking very slowly on the treadmill.
good morning it's going to be a great day! It's Cleteus from Virginia.
This is one of my favorite go-to suggestions. Some T's take up on offer-others not so much.
Good morning friends. Steve from NJ here for a jolt of inspiration.
Oh no, I will probably check it out. https://t.co/13zus5jkuf
There is a chat in the middle of the night I am afraid I really wouldn't go back to sleep
Yes , no pressure, they should know it's not "a test", but sometimes personalities & styles don't match up https://t.co/6cJwhzwOB7
Have them simply come and watch you teach...low stakes, non-threatening, just modeling best practices. That will start a good convo.
IMO, an individual may feel personally 'attacked' (even if it's encouragement or engagement). https://t.co/BExTq4VmKx
This was my problem.. https://t.co/eiw2tgmFXs
If mentee believes he/she has all the "answers" and doesn't see any benefit from the relationship, I'm not sure what can be done.
Determine if collaboration is a core value of the school. If yes, mustn't make it an option. Collaboration defines the organization.
Me too.... see you there!
I think a good mentor/mentee relationship starts w trust and mutual respect. If you don't have that it's hard to work together. 1/2
small groups and teams may help
But do you think forcing the issue will result in anything positive or just a resentful mentee?
Build the relationship. Show the new T that even a veteran T has mentors even if it's no longer official. We are better together!
This is so right. Coming at the mentioning relationship w/humbleness & "what can we learn from each other" https://t.co/xzTpZgGd30
If you are mentor, be vulnerable first. Seek authentic advice from mentee. Open door to your heart first. https://t.co/mD6QJW1Aec
As with Ss, it all starts with a trusting relationship. Do whatever it takes to build that mutual trust.
This. https://t.co/tEMGSfFKWd
Determine if collaboration is a core value of the school. If yes, mustn't make it an option. Collaboration defines the organization.
It's a slow chat with one question each school night posted at 12 PM EST. https://t.co/EDMgXGexkg
Oh no, I will probably check it out. https://t.co/13zus5jkuf
There is a chat in the middle of the night I am afraid I really wouldn't go back to sleep
We throw new teachers out of the nest and see if they can fly. Everybody to too busy to help. Drives me crazy.
Start well. Open conversation on day one about expectations of both parties. Make it clear you are a support system not a "boss".
The great guide and model for resistant Ts is a culture of support and family atmosphere. When it is natural, they can't fight it.
Wow. Im tired just reading what u all have done. Felling a little like a slacker next 2 u guys!
Then I would recommend finding someone on grade level w whom you could work and collaborate w them. 2/2
Whole-heartedly agree! I know in NY we had to register hours in order to receive and maintain certification.
Inviting our Crew to join tonight at 8pm ET as joins us for
I think open communication is key...listen, discuss, try to determine true needs and roadblocks...no easy answers here.
Been there...done that...as an instructional coach:( it's hard to work with someone like that
Yes, has to be a safe environment for them ( like our Ss) not a "you MUST do it my way. " Naturing https://t.co/ol4N9IgiIN
IMO, an individual may feel personally 'attacked' (even if it's encouragement or engagement). https://t.co/BExTq4VmKx
Have T observe a variety of collaborative experiences ~ team/grade mtgs, RTI, dept, School Imp, data & then talk purpose & outcomes
There must be. This chat is middle of the night for ;-)
So important. Their needs may not match our pre-design thoughts. Great point.
As for new teachers that are resistant to help, I think the principal needs to be involved in their growth.
Accept their input 2 way street https://t.co/tqQMGsTl5y
I think open communication is key...listen, discuss, try to determine true needs and roadblocks...no easy answers here.
Anyone on heading to San Diego for conference?
My mentee and I meet in my room at lunch once a week. Getting to know her on a personal level has helped.
This is the struggle Lori! You hit the nail on the head. But what then do we do? Give up? Not in my nature. https://t.co/JS6kJlDTFL
If mentee believes he/she has all the "answers" and doesn't see any benefit from the relationship, I'm not sure what can be done.
be the role model for them in all situations. Whether it's on the playground or in the classroom invite invite invite and model.
Not a mentor but... Maybe showing the new T that you are still learning as well would help?
I teach Crucial Conversations () & LOVE the conversation planner that helps get to the underlying issues.
If a new T is reluctant, I also need to look @ my hiring practices. Was there something I missed? Could do better next time?
Some mentees might just need time. Set up those opportunities for mentor and mentee to talk
Start with making sure the New T observes a few teachers during the year. Especially ones a few outside of the content.
That's awesome!! https://t.co/2rSkjdLKbJ
My mentee and I meet in my room at lunch once a week. Getting to know her on a personal level has helped.
I agree w/ you here Manny. As a new T I was totally on my own, no mentor, no guidance.
Admin should design new Ts prep schedule to engage in the collaborative discussions w/ peers. Then it would be easier 2 do w/ mentor
I think mentees need to understand that mentor / mentee relationship is safe - clearly right match is important
Yes as we discussed the other day Need Admin support https://t.co/TdVeciJknt
As for new teachers that are resistant to help, I think the principal needs to be involved in their growth.
I had to. It wasn't healthy for me. She got a new mentor.
Open conversations and invitations to your own classroom can help ease any potential tensions with new Ts
Huh. How *DO* you teach GM to a mentee who is change-resistant or "knows everything"?
Ahhhh! Time and listening! Beautiful!
Good Morning, ! We set collaboration expectations in the summer (inc. keeping a log) and then foster this coll. at our monthly mtgs.
If a new T continues that path, my building will not be a good fit for them to continue. https://t.co/waqHFuc7DB
As for new teachers that are resistant to help, I think the principal needs to be involved in their growth.
those are the Ts that are going to go it alone. That's a tough one, Connie. Esp bc you tried a different match up.
What can't happen is that they undermine a culture of collab by retreating into their classroom & closing the door.
Never, ever give up!! Keep looking for ways to connect and support!
Agreed. It should b a team effort, a "this is how we do things" type of intervention
I was assigned a mentor around January of my 1st year. She was great, but by then I already had people I went to.
good point. The better the match the better the results.?have any of u had a great way of predicting relationships?
Ask "mentee" to begin to share. We each learn from each other. Celebrate all people's strengths.
What one models as a mentor is key...openness, effective practices, good communication skills, patience, companion on the journey.
I really feel for new T. We are currently building the curriculum bridge as we walk on it. It is hard for experienced Ts.
Asking a simple question such as "How can I help" often is less intimidating and more inviting.
Do you ever believe that there is no right match? For some new T's we've tried/offered multiple new mentors to no avail.
Yes I always love when you join us east coasters!
Admin would need to be involved if that were the case. https://t.co/y0MeFBK3rI
What can't happen is that they undermine a culture of collab by retreating into their classroom & closing the door.
Mentee needs to feel valued and supported. Hopefully resistance will break down if that's the case.
I hope to! Maybe not 23rd--have to commute super early...otherwise...woo hoo! :)
What if - as a mentee and/or younger professional - they simply the organizational limits? Problem w/ faulty expectations?
True. It's important to set this up properly and to establish norms. https://t.co/4UnZJ8KClF
What one models as a mentor is key...openness, effective practices, good communication skills, patience, companion on the journey.
different levels, too. Totally different class even within the subject.
I have let both student teachers and 1st year Ts go when I was doing Waaaaay more work for their benefit than they were.
Same for me. Then some 17 years later I was a mentor! https://t.co/NLW4F1ozad
I agree w/ you here Manny. As a new T I was totally on my own, no mentor, no guidance.
This is why we need RESIDENCY. New Ts, should teach less and TA a class or two. Also, more than us, they need more planning time.
Right on! We don't do it 'to them' but 'with them'.
Indeed! Set the tone! Everyone brings something to the table...I've learned so much from two 1st year teachers this year!
I don't think that's giving up, Kathy. It's helping your mentee find the right person.
Trust is #1...and, you guessed it...growth mindsets.
All teachers should have growth plans. There are many that would benefit from mentor/mentee https://t.co/S5FANFwVhr
As for new teachers that are resistant to help, I think the principal needs to be involved in their growth.
Then I feel like I've failed & (selfish here) I don't like a mentee to do poorly-looks like I haven't been supporting them
I begged who was right next door to help me and she was amazing. Im sure I was annoying.
Good morn' Glad to see my fellow North Carolinians here!
My mentee was eventually let go..
Yes! Do whatever it takes to build the relationship. As with Ss, NEVER give up on them!
Perhaps having conversations about setting up grade book, finding resources in the building etc may help break the barrier
Oh and meet the mentee where they are in their journey-- ASK them what THEY need to feel supported and engaged.
Nah not the Manny we all know !!!! but it worked right !!! https://t.co/Z4G2q2docn
I begged who was right next door to help me and she was amazing. Im sure I was annoying.
Have had this same convo w/ Ss. In the class they work harder. Behind the scenes (prep), I do.
https://t.co/STwAG7lUrk
I have let both student teachers and 1st year Ts go when I was doing Waaaaay more work for their benefit than they were.
In my case, pure insomnia and wackadoodleness (and immense DIY passion).
And I've had tons of absolutely eager mentees that eat up any and all support they can get. That I love!
but if you are giving your all and have been successful in the past, it's not you.
My brother in law has a program in his district. Brings in 3rd year ed majors and start PD with them. How great is that?
always good and probable that a new T will have a number of informal mentors, as well.
My 1st year was also the 1st year of many teachers in my department. We should have banded together and done something.
Same scenario with Ss. It's all about relationships...2 way street.
New Ts b required 2 meet in PDP & could b requested 2 create a log of mtgs w/ mentee so they could look back on 2 see their growth.
growth mindset...sorry! was trying to cheat on my 140 characters :)
well if that's the case the issue sounds deeper. Maybe the mentee in question doesn't trust the system
Keep everyone engaged. Assign roles so all voices are heard and everyone feel valued https://t.co/KqeTfkKVPI
Admin would need to be involved if that were the case. https://t.co/y0MeFBK3rI
What can't happen is that they undermine a culture of collab by retreating into their classroom & closing the door.
I think both people need to agree something new and exciting to the convo...and put the checklist aside for a few visits.
Yup! Maybe that's why we became mentors-we know what a tough go it can be w/o guidance & support.
Yes! I always tell Ss I shouldn't be working harder than you do for you!
Kind of a respectful 'pressured' collaboration???
good morning!! Great seeing you on Saturday!
...or perhaps, "I saw you did ___ and I would like to learn how to do that also."
Maybe a checklist of items that need to be covered so there is an agenda to start with?
Good mornin', beautiful friend!
Yes! Agreed https://t.co/XDoTQqW9g1
This is why we need RESIDENCY. New Ts, should teach less and TA a class or two. Also, more than us, they need more planning time.
just got that song in my head..."This is how we do it.." :)
We all have something to learn from each other. No doubt we are better together. Share that message, and keep it positive!
Yes! Must build relationship. Forced collaboration won't work. Love the idea of inviting them to your class. https://t.co/NTngaxHd1h
As with Ss, it all starts with a trusting relationship. Do whatever it takes to build that mutual trust.
We don't train new teachers. We throw them out of the nest and see if they fly. Its insane to me. We have the ability to do better.
Mindset is huge! I learned THREE new things after school yesterday!!!
This was one
https://t.co/3OA7Sdvvk1 https://t.co/Zz4Ns6c6T5
Indeed! Set the tone! Everyone brings something to the table...I've learned so much from two 1st year teachers this year!
But teaching was so diff then. I could never do it alone today. https://t.co/TUbBJz7J4p
Yup! Maybe that's why we became mentors-we know what a tough go it can be w/o guidance & support.
New Ts have new ideas so brainstorming resources & sharing best practices may help mentees open up & be willing to engage in collab.
And realistically I do know that - just don't like to feel like I've failed them.
that's one of he best ways to start, lots of new Ts together...helps build a strong cohort.
Our district mentors have to submit a log of hours. Difficult since the log only includes planned meetings. https://t.co/3BWxq2v5Zi
New Ts b required 2 meet in PDP & could b requested 2 create a log of mtgs w/ mentee so they could look back on 2 see their growth.
Yes- our summer mentor training every summer includes, giving feedback, stages of new teacher, etc. ! https://t.co/sVXPUj5k7Z
Maybe a checklist of items that need to be covered so there is an agenda to start with?
Thanks, now it's stuck in my head too :) It will be r reminder for work today
Ugh... that relationship is important. https://t.co/ualPDWXicr
I posed today's Q-am a mentor & sometimes run into mentees who don't engage-tried offering other mentor for better match-no go
Keep setting official meetings with clear expectations. Mightn't appreciate it now but will later.
Sometimes they need to be let go. As a mentor, you will have good insight into that. (I had a great mentor, btw. Shoutout!)
Its also important to keep new teachers away from the cynics. Gotta stop that before it starts.
Fly? I was nearly gobbled by the proverbial wolves. And why is R Kelly singing in my head now?
It is overwhelming to think everything a new T needs to know vs what I did years ago. Im making sure my D has what she needs
Have a great day everyone!
I know. We put that reflection on ourselves, though. Hard not to do.
expressing the ability to try and fail and try again. Provide time to talk about failures and how they are really opportunities.
I'm sure you've done what you can do. At some point it's out of your hands https://t.co/UR3SIP57T6
Then I feel like I've failed & (selfish here) I don't like a mentee to do poorly-looks like I haven't been supporting them
You too! Nice to see you!
You speak the TRUTH, my friend!
Or understand or value? Is it possible that some will never "get-it". Just pondering here....
Is there another profession that does this to their newbies? Would never be allowed in other professions
you have r.kelly. has montel jordan in her head. this is a great chat.
I think you are onto something...
I did, too. Now she is my boss.
