Program Mentor (Mentor Teacher)

Department: Center for Teacher Preparation and Certification
Reports to: Program Administrator
Effective Date: 8/31/26

About the Role

The Mentor Teacher supports teacher candidates enrolled in a teacher preparation program. The mentor serves as an instructional coach, professional guide, and resource to help candidates develop their pedagogical skills, instructional practices, and readiness for lead teaching roles. Mentors work closely with candidates in their school placements, providing ongoing observation, feedback, and support aligned with program requirements and New York State teaching standards.

Responsibilities

• Mentor 1–3 teacher candidates over the course of the academic year or semester
• Conduct observations (in-person and virtual) of candidates in classroom settings
• Provide constructive, actionable feedback to improve instructional practice, classroom management, and student engagement
• Support candidates in lesson planning and curriculum development, instructional strategies and differentiation, classroom management techniques, and assessment
• Engage in check-in sessions with assigned mentees
• Model teaching practices when appropriate
• Maintain documentation of mentoring activities, including observation notes and progress updates
• Communicate regularly with program administrator regarding candidate progress and identify candidates in need of additional support
• Participate in mentor training, as required
• Prepare candidates for teaching interviews, including lesson plan development and demonstration lessons

Skills

• Strong knowledge of effective instructional practices and classroom management
• Ability to coach adults using constructive, growth-oriented feedback
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to build trusting, professional relationships with teacher candidates
• Cultural responsiveness and commitment to equity in education
• Proficiency with basic technology tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, online observation platforms)

Qualifications

• Valid New York State teaching certification in an appropriate content or grade area (preferred)
• Master’s degree in Education or related field
• Minimum of 3 years of successful teaching experience in a K–12 setting or higher education

Physical Requirements

Mentoring typically takes place on-site and virtually. Mentors must be willing to conduct some in-person visits throughout the semester depending on program structure. Time commitment averages 1–2 hours per mentee several times during a semester, including observation and feedback. Schedule follows the academic calendar of the candidate’s school placement.

Pay

This is a non-exempt position with an hourly rate range of $35–50. Hourly rate is based on the number of mentees and program guidelines. Travel will be reimbursed according to current allowable standards.

Schedule

Part-time, 29 hours or less per week based on program guidelines.