WBL = Work-Based Learning

  • Mentoring connects students to people in jobs, careers, or industries that teens might not typically have access to. This enables them to develop a network with industry professionals, practice communication skills, and foster their own skills. A mentorship is a great way to make the connection between classroom experiences and the  workplace. It also:

    • Builds self-esteem, self-worth, confidence, and flexibility;
    • Builds occupational knowledge;
    • Enables students to begin identifying areas of career interest;
    • Offers positive life outcomes for students; and
    • Builds their knowledge about the education and training needed for a particular job, career path, and entry into the industry.

  • Structure

    A successful mentorship involves:

    • Setting clear and reasonable expectations for student and mentor;
    • A long-term commitment from an adult role model (generally at least a year);
    • A student's classroom preparation and subsequent reflection on the experience;
    • A focus on building mutual trust and respect; and
    • Routine meetings or communication with enough regularity to develop a strong relationship.

    Resources:

    Interest Form

    Volunteer Application (required background check)

  • Format

    FCPS provides mentor training and a guide to help facilitate the program. A mentor can meet with as many as four students or opt for the traditional 1:1 ratio.

    • The goal is to meet monthly while school is in session.
    • Meetings can be at school or online.

    Afterward, students will log their reflection piece and the mentor will submit a survey to share feedback with the district.