Shining Light Mentoring Program

Bridgewater Village School

Philosophy Statement:

It is our belief that all children regardless of age, gender, race, socio-economic, creed, or academic ability should have access to caring, competent, non-parent adults.  Relationships are intended for the express purpose of supporting a child’s mental and emotional development.  We believe that a one-on-one adult to child mentoring relationship is important for a child’s self-esteem, positive view of the community and school success.

Mission Statement:

 It is our intention that every child who would like to have a caring adult mentor will have one.

 *The population the Bridgewater School program intends to serve students in grades 1-6;

 *We will identify young people through the Bridgewater Village Elementary school staff (teachers, administrators, etc), parents, community members, and self-referrals;

 * The Mentor Coordinator and school staff will be responsible for matching students and mentors;

 * Mentors and young people will meet during the "afterschool" activity time for approximately one hour.  Mentoring relationships will last a minimum of one school year;

 *Types of activities mentors and mentees will take part in one-to-one mentoring relationships.  On occasion there will be opportunities for group activities.