# data[].attributes.body
The first thing that came to mind when being asked to describe a time I needed a coach or mentor was when I began Crossfit.  Although I had grown up playing sports, participated in various boot camp type programs, and other gyms, Crossfit was a new way of using my body.  My coach was (and still is, years later) a wealth of knowledge to me.  My coaches have provided me with a scaffolded approach to becoming better at my movement patterns and more efficient in my workouts.  I appreciate the time, patience, and dedication that has been poured into me.

# data[].attributes.body
Some characteristics they shared were:
-patient
-humorous
-knowledgable
-practiced the skills themselves
-listened
-high level of collaboration
-supportive
-dedicated

# data[].attributes.body
A time when a mentor was needed in my life was when I began my journey to becoming an administrator. I needed someone who had traveled a similar path and would be able to provide the guidance and support in helping me become a valuable leader.

# data[].attributes.body
Characteristics:
- willing to get me to think of things from a different perspective
- supportive
- active listener
- caring
- encouraged my growth as a professional
- available

# data[].attributes.body
My mentors were amazing women.  They were there when I needed them.  Norma and Amanda were fellow teachers but they both understood that a new teacher needed to feel able to talk about what was going on in class.  They were both positive and encouraging to me even in the hardest time.
Norma and I worked at a continuation school with man EL Learners.  She was able to help me focus on how to help these students, and educated them in their terms how to be successful in math and to be proud of themselves.  Also, we were able to plan for common ways of teaching so we were able to mirror each other with common assessments.
Amanda was not in my department, but we were able to focus on the vocabulary of math to help EL students to become successful in math.  She was able to help me through my short term transfer to Buena High School.  She was encouraging in the most trying of times.
Both of these women were outstanding teachers that knew how hard it would be for a new teacher. They both supported me with lesson planning, behavior management, and overall to be a better teacher.

# data[].attributes.headline
A time when I needed a mentor was when I first started teaching full time. I had a 4/5 split and was not sure how to teach 2 different math lessons and different history and science content to 2 different groups. I needed someone with experience in differentiating   lessons while maintaining classroom management. 

# data[].attributes.subject
A time when I needed a mentor was when I first started teaching full time. I had a 4/5 split and was not sure how to teach 2 different math lessons and different history and science content to 2 different groups. I needed someone with experience in differentiating   lessons while maintaining classroom management. 

# data[].attributes.headline
My mentor helped me to brainstorm ideas.  She helped guide me with her questioning but was not critical or judgmental when I chose the idea I would put into place. She let me try things and offered support when needed.

# data[].attributes.subject
My mentor helped me to brainstorm ideas.  She helped guide me with her questioning but was not critical or judgmental when I chose the idea I would put into place. She let me try things and offered support when needed.

# data[].attributes.body
A time I needed a mentor was my first year teaching. I wouldn't say I was unprepared to teach, but having someone who I could talk to about my experience and get ideas from was a giant help for me. I felt much better about that year teaching once I met my mentor and was able to have meeting and ask them for support.

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor was:
-helpful
-kind
-a good listener
-reflective
-supportive
There a lot of other ways I could describe her characteristics, but the ones above stick out to me. It was great to be able to have someone listen to my ideas and experience and provide feedback and support.

# data[].attributes.body
I needed the support of a mentor when I started college. I was the first one in my family to go to college and so the system was completely new to me. I needed some guidance on what where the expectations, guidance on the system itself, financial aid, all of the components of going to college. So for beginner teachers is the same. It is a new world to them, and guidance is also needed.

# data[].attributes.body
- Be knowledgeable to the area of need
- Patient
- Ability to look at the big picture
- Have the best intentions for the mentee
- Ability to make me reflect

# data[].attributes.body
A time I needed a mentor was definitely my first year of teaching in Oak Park. I had come from an elementary setting and was facing a room of middle school special education students teaching a Study Skills class, which doesn't have a set curriculum. My mentor teacher was amazing and answered all of the questions I had about what to teach, how to teach students how to learn, and what to expect of students in such a unique elective class. She allowed me to observe her teaching and would come into my class to support me. Now I get to pay it forward in my new role as a mentor.

# data[].attributes.body
-Patient
-Sense of humor (laughing is good for the soul and makes this job more fun!)
-Creative
-Respectful
-Loyal (I knew what I said with her, stayed with her)
-Friend
-Excellent listening skills
-Incredible ability to reflect, change, and grow.
-Supportive

# data[].attributes.body
A time I needed a mentor was my first year of teaching. While I had completed a thorough credential program with many supports, teaching on my own for a full year was very different. I needed a mentor that had experience and understood the curriculum and intricacies of my new district as well as my new profession.

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor during my first year teaching had many positive characteristics. My mentor was very knowledgable in many areas. He also was patient and understanding.

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor when I started coaching cross country. I had very limited experience with the sport and with coaching. The girls cross country coached guided me to set up a training program and also showed me how to lead a team.

# data[].attributes.body
Passionate
Patient
Generous with their time
Motivational.

# data[].attributes.body
One of the most critical times for me in regards to needing a coach/mentor was during my student teaching. The teacher I worked with was very kind, knowledgeable and sincere in her work. She trusted me to plan, lead and try new things. She reflected with me and gave me suggestions. She gave me complete creative freedom within her classroom and would offer constructive criticism along the way. She allowed me to shape the way in which I wanted to teach and did not try to change my style. I am forever thankful for the support, resources and encouragement she provided.

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor was:
- Kind
-Patient
-Organized
-Passionate
-Trusting
-Knowledgeable
-Respectful
-Supportive

# data[].attributes.body
A time when I needed a mentor was when I did not know how to respond to an email from a parent. My mentor helped me craft a response email.

# data[].attributes.body
When I first started running our school's leadership program I was really overwhelmed. There were so many things I needed to learn. Another teacher at our school had experience teaching leadership and became my mentor. I could go to her with any question at any time of day. She never made me feel bad when I made mistakes or when things didn't go as planned. To this day I am incredibly grateful to her.

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor was...
-a good listener
-supportive (never made judgements or assumptions about me)
-respectful
-my cheerleader
-enthusiastic about my ideas

# data[].attributes.body
My first year teaching, I had a k/1 combo with 27 students. I needed a mentor to help me try to figure out a daily schedule, how to teach ELD to both grades. what activities to do, and so much more. I needed a mentor to talk to about the daily stresses and advice on managing the two different grades. I also needed help learning to talk with parents.

# data[].attributes.body
1. honest
2. helpful
3. respectful

# data[].attributes.body
A time when I needed a mentor was when I first started teaching. They were there to support me, give me guidance and answer any questions that I had.  I am still very grateful for this person!

# data[].attributes.body
*patient
*kind
*supportive
*respectful
*respected
*available

# data[].attributes.body
I started out as a teacher intern, so I needed a mentor at that time. She helped me tremendously with scheduling, assessments, collaboration with GenEd teachers and parents as well as academic resources.

# data[].attributes.body
- patient
-observant
-resourceful
- calm
-organized and able to prioritize

# data[].attributes.headline
I needed a mentor my first years of teaching on how to respond to parents when parents were upset. How to develop the positive relationships with parents.

# data[].attributes.subject
I needed a mentor my first years of teaching on how to respond to parents when parents were upset. How to develop the positive relationships with parents.

# data[].attributes.body
-caring
-patient

-resourceful
- understanding

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor when taking on a new role at school.  Changing positions at a school can be challenging.  You are put out of your comfort zone and need to do things differently than you have always done.  It requires a lot of self evaluation and reflection and it is helpful to have a mentor to help guide you through the process.  I had a set of other experienced teachers who helped lead me through the transition.

# data[].attributes.body
Patient
A good listener
Honest
Compassionate
Understanding
Helpful
Supportive

# data[].attributes.headline
I needed a coach/mentor when I first became a teacher. Even though I had experience, my mentor was very helpful in helping me adapt to the school, give me advice with classroom management, and being a supportive friend. My mentor really shaped me into being a better teacher and leader on my campus. I am happy to say that she is still my mentor, but she is also a good friend.

# data[].attributes.subject
I needed a coach/mentor when I first became a teacher. Even though I had experience, my mentor was very helpful in helping me adapt to the school, give me advice with classroom management, and being a supportive friend. My mentor really shaped me into being a better teacher and leader on my campus. I am happy to say that she is still my mentor, but she is also a good friend.

# data[].attributes.body
My first coach/mentor experience actually goes all the way back to ending my Teacher Education Program. I was disillusioned at the end of my program and felt that I no longer wanted to be a teacher. The head of the program took it upon herself to continue to keep in touch, stay connected, and reach out with teacher jobs a few years down the road. By that point I realized that I was ready and excited to become a teacher, after trying a few other jobs. She believed in me, she gave me space and time, and she also gave me a 2nd chance. She helped connect me with my 1st part time teaching job, and I have never looked back.

# data[].attributes.body
My 1st mentor/coach was:
Patient
An excellent listener
Empathic
Inspirational
Accepting

# data[].attributes.headline
My first year teaching was rough.  I was long term subbing and did not really have too many people to turn to in the beginning.  I felt pretty alone and shy to ask for help.

# data[].attributes.subject
My first year teaching was rough.  I was long term subbing and did not really have too many people to turn to in the beginning.  I felt pretty alone and shy to ask for help.

# data[].attributes.body
-Carrie Fong

# data[].attributes.headline
My mentor when I came to my current school was Rano.  She was awesome and checked in with me frequently.  I appreciated her expertise and for her just listening.  She had an open mind and never judged or was negative.  She always supported and gave ideas and options.  I still communicate with her today.

# data[].attributes.subject
My mentor when I came to my current school was Rano.  She was awesome and checked in with me frequently.  I appreciated her expertise and for her just listening.  She had an open mind and never judged or was negative.  She always supported and gave ideas and options.  I still communicate with her today.

# data[].attributes.body
When I think of mentor, the first thing that pops into my head is the teacher I had for my student teaching placement. I honestly credit all of my success in the classroom to her. She gave me the tools to be successful. She helped guide me through situations. I grew so much from her. She changed my life is such a positive way.

# data[].attributes.body
Supportive, caring, patient, knowledgeable, good listener

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor was:
~ Supportive
~ Caring
~ A good listener
~ Flexible
~ Patient
~ Knowledgeable
~ Strong
~ Resourceful

# data[].attributes.body
The first week of school where I didnt know where anything was including the restroom. I was shown my class and that was it.

# data[].attributes.body
My first teaching job was actually at a high school in South Korea, and not only was I a new teacher, but a newcomer to the country, language, and culture.

# data[].attributes.body
-Patience
-Proactive
-Good Listener
-Knowledgeable
-Knows how to find answers

# data[].attributes.body
My first solo teaching experiences was in a brand new program for students with moderate autism in grades TK-2nd. I had 6 paras and was completely overwhelmed with the level of need from the students and adults in my class. I was also at a school that had never had special education on site before and needed support on how to get staff buy-in to support my students in the general education setting.

# data[].attributes.body
Flexible, patient, knowledgeable, supportive, well connected, dedicated, and routine.

# data[].attributes.body
While getting my teaching credential, I worked at a fully inclusive elementary school in the San Fernando Valley. I was assigned to support several students throughout the day in a way very different than I had experienced in my early fieldwork and observations. I believed in the school and their mission, but I needed to shift a lot of the ways I "defaulted" to thinking about situations and even the language used to describe, for instance, a student's challenging behavior. I learned so much at that school that went on to serve me in my career.

# data[].attributes.body
The mentor I had was very collaborative and positive. Even if things were not going well, she was able to frame suggestions in a way that did not feel like judgments but rather simply things that would make my own job easier and more fulfilling.

# data[].attributes.body
I can recall really needing the support of a coach/mentor when I began working in a Children's Hospital as the academic services provider for chronic and long-term patients. While I knew how to teach, navigating new waters in a Children's hospital was very unfamiliar to me. I needed to understand medical conditions and impacts on learning and emotional stability. I had to learn a new set of skills and required support when adapting to this new environment which proved to be rather difficult at time due to the circumstances. When teaching there are always barriers to overcome but when adding in serious medical conditions I could not have survived without the support of my mentors.

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor was patient, kind, full of knowledge, and very encouraging. She held my hand to lead me without doing for me. She really pushed me to use critical thinking skills and tap into my creativity.

# data[].attributes.headline
When I began competitive swimming as an adult I needed the assistance of my coaches.  They taught me proper stroke technique as well as the mental mindset necessary to push my body to its limit.

# data[].attributes.subject
When I began competitive swimming as an adult I needed the assistance of my coaches.  They taught me proper stroke technique as well as the mental mindset necessary to push my body to its limit.

# data[].attributes.headline
The important characteristics that my swim coaches possess include the ability to observe my swimming and listen to my concerns and struggles.  They are patient and attentive.  They also have the ability to modify their teaching to work with my specific needs.

# data[].attributes.subject
The important characteristics that my swim coaches possess include the ability to observe my swimming and listen to my concerns and struggles.  They are patient and attentive.  They also have the ability to modify their teaching to work with my specific needs.

# data[].attributes.body
A time when I needed a coach/mentor

A time when i needed a coach/mentor was when I was learning how to teach in the reading and writing workshop model.  This approach was extremely different from anything I knew about literacy instruction.  The ongoing training and coaching in and outside of my classroom was extremely important for my my skill development as a literacy teacher.

# data[].attributes.body
Coach/mentor characteristics

-patient
-accessible
-time to come into my classroom
-positive constructive feedback
-trust
-humor
-empathy

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor when I first started teaching in my credential program and as a first-year teacher. The many mentors I had those first few years were essential in giving me the confidence I needed to stay in the profession. I would say having a mentor is essential, but I would encourage new teachers to get as many as possible. It helped me tremendously.

# data[].attributes.body
Having a mentor during my first year was essential because she laid out the pathway for our curriculum and then urged me to be creative and try everything, and take what works for me. She was a wealth of knowledge both academically and professionally.

# data[].attributes.body
-passionate
-patient
-witty
-knowledgeable
-trustworthy
-sincere

# data[].attributes.body
A time when I needed a mentor was when I was teaching my first year at the high school, and the day before school began, I was given an extra class to take on that I had not yet prepared for. My mentor worked with me closely by giving me some of the resources she used in her class. This was able to keep me afloat until I was able to figure out what methods and resources worked best for me. I am so grateful my mentor was there for me!

# data[].attributes.body
- patient
- funny
- not judgemental
- listener
- experience

# data[].attributes.body
I have been lucky to have many mentors throughout my life that have helped me succeed. One such mentor experience was when I started working for Weight Watchers back in 2001. My mentor helped me feel confident in leading group discussions. These foundational skills still help me today in the classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor was patient, kind, supportive, and a good listener!

# data[].attributes.headline
When I first started playing a sport in high school.  I had no idea what I was doing or where to even begin.  Most of the girls that were on the team had been playing volleyball for years so they knew the terms, placements, techniques, etc. It was super overwhelming.  I had a coach that took the time to walk me through what was expected of me and what I should be doing while on the court.  Not only did I improve but I became confident in my skills.  All because of this one coach.  

# data[].attributes.subject
When I first started playing a sport in high school.  I had no idea what I was doing or where to even begin.  Most of the girls that were on the team had been playing volleyball for years so they knew the terms, placements, techniques, etc. It was super overwhelming.  I had a coach that took the time to walk me through what was expected of me and what I should be doing while on the court.  Not only did I improve but I became confident in my skills.  All because of this one coach.  

# data[].attributes.headline
Coaches are patient, caring, supportive, a good listener, willing to help, go the extra mile, and are role models.  

# data[].attributes.subject
Coaches are patient, caring, supportive, a good listener, willing to help, go the extra mile, and are role models.  

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor when I started teaching. Everything was overwhelming. I’m glad I had a great mentor that provided support.

# data[].attributes.body
She was kind, caring, passionate, resourceful, supportive, great listener!

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor when I switched from being a resource teacher in elementary school to a middle school science teacher. I changed districts, population demographics, grade level and subject matter over the course of 2 weeks and didn't know anything about how to be an effective middle school teacher.

# data[].attributes.body
My mentor was thoughtful, supportive, knowledgeable, a great listener, gave excellent advice, and didn't sugar coat anything. I knew that she wanted me to be the best teacher I could be, and she guided me toward the skills that I would need moving forward on my own. She also made me a part of our teacher community and helped me build relationships with our other teachers.

# data[].attributes.headline
I time that sticks out to me is during my student teaching.  This was the first time I was actually teaching in a classroom and I need the support of my master teacher very much.  I looked to her for guidance before, during and after instruction.

# data[].attributes.subject
I time that sticks out to me is during my student teaching.  This was the first time I was actually teaching in a classroom and I need the support of my master teacher very much.  I looked to her for guidance before, during and after instruction.

# data[].attributes.headline
My mentor teacher had such grace, and encouragement for me.  She always met me where I needed her and lead me to higher ground.

# data[].attributes.subject
My mentor teacher had such grace, and encouragement for me.  She always met me where I needed her and lead me to higher ground.

# data[].attributes.headline
My first job as a first time teacher.  I had worked as an aide in public school for 8 years but private school is a whole new ball game.  I definitely felt overwhelmed and confused about a lot.

# data[].attributes.subject
My first job as a first time teacher.  I had worked as an aide in public school for 8 years but private school is a whole new ball game.  I definitely felt overwhelmed and confused about a lot.

# data[].attributes.headline
I had 2 great teachers who immediately came to my rescue

# data[].attributes.subject
I had 2 great teachers who immediately came to my rescue

# data[].attributes.body
-they were humorous
-helpful
-caring
-friendly
-informative
-available for questions

# data[].attributes.headline
I began my teaching career at a school for adolescents with emotional issues who had not been able to remain in their home schools.  I was a new and energetic teacher but I really had no idea what I was getting into.  There was one other teacher at the school.  She made it her mission to help me start off on the right track in a very demanding teaching job.  She had endless patience and made time to answer all of my questions and to guide me as I figured out my teaching style.  She was not officially a mentor but the played a much needed role as one. 

# data[].attributes.subject
I began my teaching career at a school for adolescents with emotional issues who had not been able to remain in their home schools.  I was a new and energetic teacher but I really had no idea what I was getting into.  There was one other teacher at the school.  She made it her mission to help me start off on the right track in a very demanding teaching job.  She had endless patience and made time to answer all of my questions and to guide me as I figured out my teaching style.  She was not officially a mentor but the played a much needed role as one. 

# data[].attributes.body
open
helpful
willing to let me try my ideas
generous with materials & time
knowledgeable
funny
inspiring

# data[].attributes.body
A time in my life when I needed a mentor was my first year of teaching. I was lucky enough to be in a co-teaching experience. I was in a Special Education position where students with various needs were included in regular education classes. I was learning how to interact with not only the students, but also rightly demanding parents, general education teachers, administrators, and over 15 paraprofessionals. My co-teacher did an amazing job of supporting me with all those relationships and inspiring me with her ability to juggle it all.

# data[].attributes.body
The characteristic my mentor had was grit and joy.  She took on a challenging workload and managed to balance the work even as the demands shifted throughout the day.  Most importantly, she demonstrated how to celebrate the small successes to keep the grit and joy alive.

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor my first year teaching. I was teaching in the inner city, and I was teaching students who had a vast amount of needs, both academically, emotionally, and socially. I was fortunate enough that my mentor was also my partner teacher and it was really helpful.

# data[].attributes.body
-Positive
-Helpful
-Supportive
-Kind
-Compassionate
-Creative

# data[].attributes.headline
My coaches were consistent, available, honest, hard working, creative, and always could find the positive.  

# data[].attributes.subject
My coaches were consistent, available, honest, hard working, creative, and always could find the positive.  

# data[].attributes.body
The time I needed a coach and mentor was when I was first doing my student teaching. I had taught college prior, but now I was thrown in a classroom with children, I felt that the approach was much different and I was nervous. Thankfully, I had an amazing mentor at the time to show and teach me a lot.

# data[].attributes.body
- caring
- supportive
- understanding when I made mistakes
- guiding me in the right direction.
- let me vent

# data[].attributes.headline
I needed a mentor when I first started teaching independent study 8 years ago. It was completely different than teaching in traditional school, which I did for the previous 10 years. I needed help with the curriculum, all of the technology and I had tons of questions. I wasn't assigned a mentor at OPIS, but thankfully had lots of help from the 2 teachers who shared a classroom with me. I couldn't have done it without their support. This is one of the reasons I wanted to be a mentor this year, so I could give back to a new teacher.

# data[].attributes.subject
I needed a mentor when I first started teaching independent study 8 years ago. It was completely different than teaching in traditional school, which I did for the previous 10 years. I needed help with the curriculum, all of the technology and I had tons of questions. I wasn't assigned a mentor at OPIS, but thankfully had lots of help from the 2 teachers who shared a classroom with me. I couldn't have done it without their support. This is one of the reasons I wanted to be a mentor this year, so I could give back to a new teacher.

# data[].attributes.headline
I needed a coach/mentor when I first began teaching.  Everything was so different than what I learned in class and it was nice to have someone to talk with.  Someone who could help me without feeling like my job would be in jeopardy.

# data[].attributes.subject
I needed a coach/mentor when I first began teaching.  Everything was so different than what I learned in class and it was nice to have someone to talk with.  Someone who could help me without feeling like my job would be in jeopardy.

# data[].attributes.headline
Patience, understanding, guidance, a good sounding board, honest but not harsh

# data[].attributes.subject
Patience, understanding, guidance, a good sounding board, honest but not harsh

# data[].attributes.body
When I was completing my Master's program, I found it invaluable to have a mentor in my corner. It was reassuring to know I had someone with whom I could go to for guidance, brainstorm ideas, and who could understand any frustrations or stresses I was feeling.

# data[].attributes.body
- patient
- understanding
- helpful
- willing to give their time; available
- honest and direct

# data[].attributes.body
A time in which I needed a mentor was when I moved from VA to CA to teach at Buena High School. The district here is significantly different from what I was used to. I grew up on the east coast, went to east coast schools, and taught there as well. When I began teaching here, I felt lost. I needed direction because the curriculum was new; however, there was no curriculum support materials (textbooks/workbooks/scope and sequence) yet created. I turned to a senior teacher here and she lead me to success! Having the confidence to teach a new subject in a new district made all the difference to my students!

# data[].attributes.body
-Approachable
-Kind
-HONEST
-Knowledgeable
-Positive
-Confident

# data[].attributes.headline
I needed a mentor when I started my first teaching job. I was so scared and felt so unsure of my abilities.  I was hired as an intern and so thankful and appreciative to have someone support nd help guide me through. 

# data[].attributes.subject
I needed a mentor when I started my first teaching job. I was so scared and felt so unsure of my abilities.  I was hired as an intern and so thankful and appreciative to have someone support nd help guide me through. 

# data[].attributes.body
kind, compassionate, knowledgeable and realistic.

# data[].attributes.body
She was very patient, compassionate, kind

# data[].attributes.body
When I had to co-teach and learn boundaries and how to properly communicate about the day. I appreciated the support and ideas.

# data[].attributes.body
She was organized, great communicator and very supportive

# data[].attributes.body
As I began my first year of teaching in my own classroom, I was definitely in need of a mentor. Although I had prior experience in the classroom, being "on my own" was a whole new adventure. I was hired a month into the school year and had ONE weekend to set up my classroom and figure out a plan to get through the rest of the year. I had 3 amazing mentors who rescued me and guided me in the right direction.

# data[].attributes.body
3 great mentors who made themselves available and were very supportive, approachable and patient with all my questions. We have developed a life-long friendship and I will forever be grateful for their guidance.

# data[].attributes.body
The first time I needed a mentor was when I was teaching when I started a new teaching at a middle school after I got my Special Education credential. I had always taught in a elementary school and need advise on the school culture of a middle school.

# data[].attributes.body
Patient
Understanding
Good listener
Supportive

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor my first year teaching when I was struggling with classroom management.

# data[].attributes.body
Active listener
Supportive
Empathetic

# data[].attributes.body
I needed a mentor when I started working at an inner city Charter School. Everyone on staff was younger and less experienced than I was (they were predominantly TFA) and I'd never worked with this population before. We had a Principal who would take joy in making us (the predominantly female staff) cry. It was honestly the hardest two years of my life.

# data[].attributes.body
A good mentor is:
Active listener
Supportive
Empathetic