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Community Mentor Program

 

The Onteora Community Mentor Program offers a unique and challenging learning opportunity for students in grades 9 through 12. Students with a specific area of interest that they are passionate about and wish to explore more deeply may find this program to be an ideal fit. 

Possible areas of exploration include:

  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics): Environmental Science, Robotics, Computer Programming, Engineering

  • Arts and Humanities- Visual Arts, Music, Literature, Philosophy

  • Crafts and Design - Fashion Design, Woodworking, Interior Design, Graphic Design

  • Health and Medicine - Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, Nutrition, Physical Therapy

  • Social Sciences- Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology

  • Business and Entrepreneurship- Marketing, Finance, Startups, Business Management

  • Communications and Media- Journalism, Film and Television Production, Public Relations, Digital Media

  • Culinary Arts- Baking and Pastry Arts, Culinary Innovation, Food Science

  • Environmental and Agricultural Sciences- Sustainable Agriculture, Wildlife Conservation, Environmental Policy

  • Public Service and Law- Law Enforcement, Legal Studies, Public Policy, Social Work

  • Trades and Technical Skills- Carpentry, Automotive Repair, Electrical Work, Welding

  • Performing Arts- Theater, Dance, Music Performance, Stage Management

Throughout the semester, each student is paired with a mentor who supports and guides their learning journey. Meetings between students and mentors take place regularly outside of school hours, and students also engage in independent study to further their understanding of their chosen subject. Monthly meetings with the program coordinator and fellow participants enhance the experience by providing additional support and opportunities for reflection.

We hope to supplement the traditional face-to-face opportunities, with a limited number of Zoom/Google Meet mentorships.  This will allow students interested in harder to find experts to still have access to mentorships.

The program culminates in a celebratory event where students present a complex, polished, and authentic project that showcases their learning to a public audience. Successful completion of the program earns students 1/2 credit, reflecting the dedication and effort invested in this enriching educational experience.

 Questions? Contact David Nelsen-Epstein at depstein@onteora.k12.ny.us.