Partners in Education
 

REACH

One of the divisions of the Partners in Education organization is REACH. The program is designed to foster a basic sense of self-esteem, self-confidence and a motivation to learn and improve personal and social skills that will reinforce the importance of an education. Reaching one child at a time is the primary goal of the program.

Mentors are greatly needed at several elementary campuses, and at all four McKinney ISD middle schools. However, any campus can request a mentor and mentors are needed district-wide. Campuses with an increased need for mentors include Burks Elementary, Caldwell Elementary, Finch Elementary, Malvern Elementary and Webb Elementary as well Evans Middle School, Faubion Middle School, Dowell Middle School and Scott Johnson Middle School.

How are students selected to the program?

The Partners In Education Program provides every campus with a Campus Referral Form. The campuses use this form as a guide to select students they feel can benefit from having a mentor. Once a student is identified, the parent/guardian is contacted and informed that their child has been referred to the Mentor Program. Permission to participate in the Mentor Program is sought from the parent/guardian. The student is then contacted, and asked if he/she would like to be part of this program. No student is required to participate.
 

Benefits Realized by Students Improved grades Fewer discipline referrals Increased attendance Better social skills Increased self-esteem Appreciation of education
Benefits Realized by Mentors Helping others succeed Personal growth and awareness through insights gained from students Shaping the future leaders of tomorrow Sense of accomplishment by inspiring a student Increased meaningful involvement in your community

What is Required of a Mentor?
Mentors are asked to volunteer a minimum of one hour per week during the school day. This is a school-based program, therefore, all mentoring takes place at the student’s campus during a time that has been set up by the Campus Liaison and the mentor. Outside contact is not allowed unless it is at a school function, such as basketball game.

How do I Become a Mentor?
All McKinney ISD volunteers are required to complete the on-line McKinney ISD volunteer application. This process includes a background check. Once approved, a one-hour mentor orientation training is required. A Campus Liaison will then contact you to schedule a face-to-face meeting. You will then be matched with a mentee, and a date will be established to begin the program.

How do I Begin the Process?
Volunteers are asked to contact the McKinney Independent School District Partners In Education Office at #1 Duvall Street, McKinney Texas, 469-742-4043 or e-mail Nancy Cowlishaw at ncowlishaw@mckinneyisd.net.

(Click here to complete the on-line Volunteer Application)