• Believe in the Mission and Vision of the Maryland TESOL Association; 
• Are open to thinking outside of the box in terms of what it means to be a professional in the TESOL field;
• Demonstrate foundational principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in interactions.
• Understand what it means to work with and address the needs of English learners in Maryland specifically;
• Realize and appreciate that Maryland's English learner populations and the ways they are taught are constantly changing;
• Recognize the importance of advocating for our English learners AND their stakeholders (e.g., teachers, administrators, school liaisons, support staff);
• Pursue continuous learning as a self-directed learner, have a measure of self-awareness, and support the need for continued professional development throughout one’s career (including for themselves);
• Have the drive to listen and be empathetic, maintain a neutral and objective approach, be open-minded and curious to what their colleagues have to share, and provide guidance in addressing their needs;
• Are comfortable with providing constructive feedback in a way that meets their mentees needs;
• Possess the knowledge for varied types of TESOL career advancement.

All mentors must be current Maryland TESOL members by the start of the program in late August and remain a member in good standing throughout the duration of the program. Click here to check your membership status or to become a member. All mentors also agree to fully partake in mentor activities throughout the year, including:

1. Completing the 15-hour Mentor Coaching Program (September-November); this includes fully attending required virtual sessions, completing readings and homework exercises, and completing a final mentor project. An optional face-to-face social will take place in September, where mentors will be able to meet the mentors coaches and their cohort colleagues in-person and also meet with Maryland TESOL Board Members.
2. Attending the Maryland TESOL Conference where all mentors will receive their Certificate of Completion for the Coaching Program and network with potential mentees. Mentors and mentees will be matched and have their initial meetings in December.
3. Working with their mentees for approximately 30 hours from January-June; this includes bi-weekly meetings that are scheduled in consultation with the mentee, check-ins with the mentor coaches to see how things are progressing.
4. Attending the Maryland TESOL Annual Spring Meeting/Dinner in mid-May (specific date TBA). We will celebrate with the larger Maryland TESOL community! 

QUESTIONS?

Email pastpresident@marylandtesol.com