Why Mentor and not "Teacher"?
This conscious choice of the use of the term mentor is deeply related to our approach and the SelfDesign™ methodology. Mentor as we are using it: "wise and trusted guide", stems from it's etymological ancient Greek roots. The image is individuals sitting side by side, learner and mentor gazing out at a shared interest, subject, and passion.
SelfDesign High mentors are certified with the BC College of Teachers to mentor learners in our unique distance learning alternative high school program.
At Self Design High, mentors act as guides for high school age learners as they engage in courses and workshops. Mentors use a portfolio assessment method and actively encourage student involvement and self-assessment.
They offer constructive, positive and reflective commentary on learner assignments and projects. Our mentors often co-design courses and assignments to meet the aspirations and creative inspirations of our learners.
Mentors gather at SelfDesign to participate in workshops, professional development, meet and converse regarding new innovations in interactive technology, enhancing and fostering deeper connection with learners, other mentors and the wider educational community.
Reflections on Mentorship
from a recent SelfDesign High Graduate
Dear mentor,
Thank you so much for putting up with me. I know it's your job and you get paid for this, but you really have done well with what you've been given. I don't know if I'd have the courage to do your work. You have taught me much more than the course outlines and outcomes, and I know most of it won't occur to me until I am long gone from your course list.
The first thing I remember noticing when we met was that you are a human. Sure, maybe I should have known this already, but hey! my experience with educators has not always been so fortunate! You looked me in the eyes and introduced yourself and we had a true conversation (you know, where we both spoke and both listened) about my class work and the role you would take. And even though I may not have always been stoked on a course which I was required to take, I remember being excited just to have an excuse to spend time getting to know you a bit better. And now, when I see you on the street or at an art show you see me too.
Another thing I remember learning after we had known each other for a while was that you are a human. You have a life that includes school, not one that is school. I have been fortunate, sometimes on very special occasions, to be invited into your great mysterious life. I've met your family once or twice, as you've met mine and we've both secretly reveled at the chance to see how we react in the world outside of school and work. This made sense – I began to see how you are so animated about your subjects, how easy it is for you to bring (what a cynic like myself might call ‘boring subject matter’) to life. I have also seen how you are not invincible; you have soft spots that hurt when they get hit and you have a heart that feels when its strings get pulled. (I've never told you before, but I've always wanted to meet a my-aged-version of you and befriend you.)
And most recently I've noticed the most important thing: that you are a human. You need breakfast like the rest of us and you laugh at jokes that aren't always funny and you, well, you might even get tired once in a while. I realize that your work poses a great challenge, but with this you continue to excel over and beyond through the countless situations that arise in one's life when they are dedicated to living it. And here is why I think I admire you as I do, for being a mentor that not only demands incredible responsibility, but it also requires you to acknowledge that there is so much more for you to learn. Through all of this I've only ever seen you grasp these challenges with both hands.
And so here I am, just wanting you to know that I appreciate it all: the nudging, the listening, the late night reminders... the giggles, the youtube video links, the cinnamon buns... the desk to hide under, the sarcastic banter, the use of the photocopier... the encouragement, the hugs, the space... the lessons, the antidotes and the friendships.
- C. Foulds
