By Danny Federico Riverbend News
Hamilton County High School (HCHS) will be launching their HCHS Mentor Program under the leadership of Tiffany Criswell, who works as HCHS's Social and Emotional Learning School Support. The Advisory Committee met on Wednesday, Nov. 4, to discuss start-up plans for the Mentor Program, which will begin in January of 2021.
The program's motto, "each one, reach one," encourages both staff members and members of the community to serve as a mentor for a HCHS student. Those interested in becoming a mentor are urged to fill out a volunteer application form online at hamiltonfl.com/parent-resources or obtain a volunteer application from the Hamilton County School District office, located at 5683 US-129 South in Jasper, which will need to be approved by the school board before being recruited to volunteer.
Mentors and students will receive virtual training before their virtual mentoring sessions in January. According to Criswell, "A mentor is encouraged to commit to one school year," but there is also a hope that "the mentor would remain with the mentee until graduation." The mentors will be provided with tools and a resource folder that will help in their providing college readiness, emotional and social skills, along with career exploration.
Applications are available for those who wish to become a mentor, as well as for students who are interested in being mentored. Those interested in participating in the Mentor Program are encouraged to contact Criswell at (386) 792-8128.