Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan Board Member District V | Gwinnett County Public Schools
Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan Board Member District V | Gwinnett County Public Schools
Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) is spotlighting Jones Middle School's mentoring program as part of its reflection on National Mentoring Month. The initiative, which began three years ago under the leadership of Principal Lin Thornton, has grown significantly. Initially starting with 24 girls and eight boys, the program now supports 104 girls and 55 boys from grades six to eight.
Counselor Shena Manning and Advisor April Aviles were instrumental in implementing Thornton's vision to provide academic, social, and emotional support to students. Manning emphasized the importance of having "that one trusted adult" for students within the school environment. "Mrs. Thornton has always been an committed advocate for this idea," she stated, highlighting how the program expanded from involving 20 teachers and staff members to now including 69 mentors.
Principal Thornton noted the positive outcomes associated with the mentoring efforts: “Students report stronger school connections, improved behavior, and greater self-confidence.” She also mentioned that mentors find their roles fulfilling. According to Thornton, "Jones Middle School’s mentoring program stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the positive impact of dedicated mentors."
As GCPS celebrates this success story, there is hope that other schools within the district will be inspired to adopt similar initiatives.
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