Antigo Recognized For Outstanding Mentoring Program

The Antigo Education Association has won a 2003 NEA-Saturn/UAW Partnership Award for its innovative mentoring program developed in conjunction with the Unified School District of Antigo and the University of Wisconsin.

The award is intended to honor collaborative efforts between associations and school districts to assist new teachers and offer them guidance, professional support, and opportunity for professional growth in order to increase teacher-retention rates.

Saturn representative Jill Lajdziak and NEA President Reg Weaver will present members of the Antigo partnership with a trophy June 30 during a celebratory dinner in New Orleans, just prior to the start of the NEA Representative Assembly.

"A great teacher is the single most important ingredient in every classroom," Weaver said. "Our children deserve nothing less. And keeping those great teachers - especially during their critical first few years - is the goal of these partnerships."

Antigo began its mentoring program seven years ago with a modest welcome luncheon. The program has since evolved into a three-year formal curriculum that earns graduate course credits for mentors and mentees.

The program features a 10-week class for new teachers called Collaboration: Starting Teachers Achieving Results (COSTAR).

By participating in the class, Antigo teachers earn credit toward the state's license renewal requirements and help build their confidence in teaching.

The program has been instrumental in attracting high-quality educators to the Antigo School District.

Saturn is inviting members of the Antigo partnership to tour its plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee, this November.

Posted June 12, 2003