Every new educator deserves someone in their corner.

New teachers face a sharp learning curve, and about 20% leave within 3 years of starting. That’s why our Regional Educator Network connects new teachers with experienced mentors.

We spent a day with music teacher and mentor Carissa Shrout in the Hillsboro School District to see what her mentoring looks like up close. Carissa believes that mentoring isn’t just about advice; it’s about listening, modeling vulnerability and helping new teachers see their own strengths. She says the program's strength is that it equips new teachers with the skills they need to sustain their practices even after they are no longer mentees.

As of fall 2025, 11 districts and 34 mentors are supporting 173 mentees across 71 schools -- a regional effort that ensures every new educator, no matter where they start, has someone walking alongside them.

Join Superintendent Dan Goldman, Mentoring Program Administrator Naheed Brown and Director of Instructional Services Jerome Townsend as they watch Carissa talk about her experience as a mentor and reflect on their own early teaching experiences.