District Newsletter: Mentoring Program Results and Student Impact

Mentoring program results deserve to be shared with the community that makes them possible. When families see the outcomes data and hear specific stories from students and mentors, they are more likely to refer students to the program, volunteer as mentors, and support the funding that keeps the program running.

This Year's Program Numbers

Our district mentoring program served [number] students this year across [number] schools. Students were matched with [number] volunteer mentors from the community. The average mentoring relationship this year lasted [months]. [Number] students who entered the program last year have remained with their mentor into this year.

What the Data Shows About Student Outcomes

Students who participated in the mentoring program this year showed [specific outcomes: lower chronic absenteeism rates than the year before they enrolled, higher GPA stability compared to a matched comparison group, higher rates of reporting school connection on the annual student survey]. The most consistent outcome across the research on mentoring is improved school attendance, and our local data matches that pattern.

Student Voices

We asked students in the program to share what their mentor means to them. [Student quote, anonymized or with permission: "My mentor taught me how to apply for a job. I have my first interview next month."] [Another quote: "He knows when I am having a hard week without me having to say it."] These relationships are not replaceable by any program or curriculum.

Mentor Voices

Mentors tell us [quote from mentor or summary of what mentors report: most report that the relationship is as meaningful to them as it is to their mentee. Many mentors have extended their commitment year after year.] Our longest-running mentoring match is now in its [number] year.

A Sample Mentoring Results Newsletter Excerpt

"This year, [X] students in our district had a mentor. Students in the program showed better attendance, stronger school connection, and more positive attitudes about their future. Here is what the data looks like, what students and mentors say about the experience, and how to get involved for next year."

Expansion for Next Year

Based on this year's outcomes and waiting list, the district is expanding the mentoring program to [additional schools or grade levels] for next year. We need [number] additional volunteer mentors. The time commitment is [hours per month]. Mentors meet students at school during lunch, after school, or in community settings depending on the match.

How to Volunteer or Refer a Student

Volunteer mentors can apply at [URL]. Students can be referred by a parent, counselor, or teacher, or they can self-refer. Daystage newsletters include direct links to both forms so community members and families can act immediately after reading about the program results.