The Mentor Minute is designed to support lead mentors and mentors in VBCPS. Each month, the newsletter will focus on a key area of support for new teachers, with resources and strategies aligned to the focus area. We will also use this space to spotlight the amazing work of mentors across the division.

In this edition:

• Focus: Reflection
• Supporting New Teachers: Ideas for Reflection and Gratitude
• What's Happening This Month: Important Dates
• Monthly Mentor Spotlight: Micki Blevins, RFES; Melissa Minter, ILES; Stephanie Wyman, TES; Christine Hayes, CFES; Jessica Gusman, SMS

As the school year winds down, new educators enter the Reflection phase, a time to look back on their journey, celebrate growth, and make meaning of their experiences. This is a powerful opportunity for mentors to help their mentees recognize how far they’ve come, both professionally and personally. Your encouragement and thoughtful questions can turn year-end reflection into a launchpad for continued growth. Thank you for walking beside them this year. Your steady support has made a lasting impact.

As the year comes to a close, reflection becomes a powerful tool for meaning-making and closure. These three letter-writing activities offer meaningful ways for mentors and mentees to celebrate growth, express gratitude, and share wisdom. Choose one, or all three, to support a thoughtful end to your mentoring journey. Feel free to use these as true letter-writing activities, or consider using the prompts to make this reflection a meaningful conversation using the stems to begin.

If you have new mentoring relationships start, a blank roster is linked below for your convenience.

💡As we close out the school year, we’re proud to celebrate our final group of Mentor Spotlights for May. Each of these mentors exemplifies the dedication, reflection, and heart that define impactful mentorship. While they are the last to be highlighted this year, they represent the ongoing commitment shown by mentors across our division. Thank you to all of our mentors for the time, care, and encouragement you’ve given new educators this year!

💡 Micki Blevins – Rosemont Forest Elementary

• Micki’s thoughtful, individualized support helps new teachers reflect on their growth in personal and empowering ways. Her commitment to the profession shines through as she guides mentees with respect and care, helping them close the year with purpose and pride.

• Melissa’s consistent check-ins and cheerful leadership help new teachers feel seen and supported. In the Reflection phase, she creates space for meaningful conversations and celebrates milestones. Her steady presence helps mentees close the year with confidence and clarity.

• Stephanie’s warmth and encouragement help new teachers reflect with confidence and positivity. She celebrates their growth, offers wise guidance, and makes space for joy in a demanding profession. Her support is a true gift during this season of reflection.

• Christine’s calm guidance and wealth of experience make her a powerful support during the Reflection phase. She helps her mentee recognize growth, offering both encouragement and practical strategies.

• Jessica’s support of her mentee creates a ripple effect of encouragement and expertise. In the Reflection phase, she helps others see their strengths and feel valued. Her uplifting spirit and shared resources make her a steady source of support and inspiration.

Reach out and let me know. I can model an activity for you, be a discussion partner on how an activity or strategy might work or engage with you in a solution-finding conversation around a dilemma you have.

Contact Karol Bledsoe, Professional Learning Specialist, karol.bledsoe@vbschools.com.