Introduction
Local program coordinators make a difference because
they:
- provide essential leadership to the program
- draw together community leaders, school staff, and employers
- assure the quality of the e-mentoring experience
- provide vision that ignites enthusiasm
- provide support that helps students stay in school, avoid drug
use, and achieve academically
- enhance their community's future workforce
- make a difference in the lives of young people in their community
About Local Program Coordinators
The Local Program Coordinator oversees the entire Connecting to
Success e-mentoring program at the local level, including the training
process. This person serves as a liaison between the school, the
employer, and the community partners. The Coordinator calls a meeting
of the key players from the school, the business, and the community
to:
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of each key player
- Decide on local goals and objectives within the scope of Connecting
to Success goals and objectives
- Plan the training
Following the training, the Local Program Coordinator maintains
contact with teachers and employers to assure that the program is
running smoothly. The Coordinator also handles public relations
and raises funds for the program when appropriate.
Who are Local Program Coordinators?
Coordinators are people with a desire to benefit youth and their
community by using leadership skills to draw together the people
and resources needed for a successful e-mentoring project. A Coordinator
could be a member of the Chamber of Commerce, a city leader, a member
of the School Board, an active member of the business community,
an educational leader, an active and concerned parent, a staff member
at the school, or any community member able to do the following:
- Create/foster a link between the school and the community
- Convene school administrators and teachers with community leaders
to initiate the project
- Promote a positive vision of the contributions youth with disabilities
can make in their community
- Spearhead local training for mentors, employers, and teachers
- Following the program's start-up, contribute one to three hours
per week to maintain the quality of the program and provide leadership
- Locate and acquire funding or other resources when necessary
Benefits for Local Program Coordinators
- Participate in cutting-edge educational innovation
- Become acquainted with other people who strive toward similar
goals
- Receive training in relationship enhancement and communication
skills
- Increase your understanding of the issues youth with disabilities
face
- Increase your knowledge of diverse groups of people
- Gain the satisfaction of knowing you are benefiting students
and your community
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