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Academic Mentoring

Academic Mentoring, formerly known as America Reads*America Counts, has been in the Riley County community for over 15 years.  Last year, the program’s name changed to Academic Mentoring to better express the true intention and nature of the services provided.  Academic Mentoring places K-State students in local schools and community organizations to help support and promote family literacy efforts and youth-related programming.  K-State students serve as mentors who work with area youth to provide academic assistance as well as motivation and support.

As partners for learning, academic mentors and community youth have responded well to one another.  Youth are assisted individually or in small groups depending on the classroom setting and time. Serving as a mentor teaches college students how to adjust to differences as well as how to develop reliability and responsibility.

Who and where do we mentor?

Mentors will be matched with a placement site based upon availability and which age group and setting the Mentor feels most comfortable.  Currently Academic Mentoring has 7 placement sites in the Riley County community:  Beach Museum of Art, College Hill Preschool, Hand to Hand program at Douglass Center, K-State Child Development Center, Lee School, Manhattan Catholic School, and St. George Elementary.

What are the program requirements?

• Serve a minimum of ten hours per week at an assigned site according to preference
• Help design, plan, and implement a service project with guidance from program staff
• Attend monthly reflection meetings
• Record and submit activity information and logged hours
• Be responsible, reliable, and a positive role model
• Have a true interest in assisting youth with their school work and skills

What's the benefit to me?

Students eligible for Federal Work Study may receive an hourly wage for their time. Students not eligible for Federal Work Study may receive a scholarship at the end of each semester of participation.  Students may also choose to participate in the AmeriCorps Career for the Common Good program and receive a $1000 education award after completing 300 hours of service.

In addition, K-State students:

• Acquire skills and knowledge in specified areas such as youth development & family literacy
• Professional development, networking, and training opportunities
• Serve as a role model to youth in the community
• Personal fulfillment through participation in national and community service

Are mentors trained?

After being accepted into the program, mentors will be required to attend a program orientation and additional monthly reflection workshops where they will gain knowledge regarding youth development and family literacy issues as well as brainstorm and plan activities to share with the students. Guest speakers will share their expertise on topics such as comprehension, writing, behavior, communication, creative teaching methods, and student self-esteem.

Reflection activities for mentors will also be provided during the training and workshops. A variety of techniques will be used such as small group discussion and personal journal writing. Mentors will have the opportunity to share what they have learned with other mentors and reflect upon similar situations in order to learn and grow as individuals. Each mentor will keep a journal with his or her student(s) to track the student's progress and the mentor's performance.

Why is literacy important?

Literacy has been shown as an important indicator as to the future success of the child. If students cannot read well by the end of third grade, the chances of them dropping out of school increase significantly. An increase in behavior problems has been indicated as well. Nationally, 40% of fourth grade aged students cannot read well. By committing time and dedication to meeting the needs of these children ages K-3, we will help to provide a basic foundation in the success of future generations. For more information on literacy, visit the National Institute for Literacy website.

Why are math skills important?

U.S. fourth graders are performing above the international average in mathematics, only to suffer a severe decline in the middle school years. By the time students finish secondary school, they are performing significantly below the international average. With a hands-on approach, mentors will directly address the issue of the poor mathematics achievements of the students in our surrounding area. By implementing one-on-one mentoring, we can improve the students' mathematical skills and capabilities that will be required of them in college and in their future careers. When the younger students receive extra attention, they are able to learn the skills they need and gain the confidence they need to conquer tough classes like algebra and geometry. Mastering these tough classes will provide students with the strong foundation they need to succeed in the future.

How do I become a mentor?

To apply, complete the Academic Mentoring Application and return to Civic Leadership located in the Foundation Center at 2323 Anderson Ave, Ste 125. As a part of the application process, there is a brief personal interview. Applications are accepted on an on-going basis.

If you have any further questions feel free to contact Academic Mentoring program staff at userve@k-state.edu or (785) 532-3650.