Ep 127: Building Bridges: Creating Inclusive Mentorship for Educators at Lyons Township

In this illuminating episode of New Teacher Talk, Dr. Beth and Dr. Anna host the administrative team from Lyons Township High School as they share their groundbreaking approach to recruiting, supporting, and retaining diverse educators. Superintendent Dr. Brian Waterman reveals how their community-driven strategic planning process led to concrete diversity goals with measurable outcomes. HR Director Ed Piotrowski details their equity-focused hiring practices, while Dr. Jennifer Rowe explains the power of affinity groups like BEST and SEED in creating spaces where BIPOC educators can thrive professionally.

Learn how this Illinois district is reimagining traditional mentorship by empowering new teachers to choose mentors based on their specific needs rather than just curricular alignment. Whether you're an administrator looking to diversify your staff or an educator seeking inclusive environments, this episode offers practical strategies for creating educational spaces where all teachers can succeed.

LINKS

Illinois Affinity Group Network: https://www.isbe.net/Pages/LR-Affinity-Groups.aspx

Lyons Township High School: www.lths.net

Dr. Brian Waterman: bwaterman@d204.lths.net

Dr. Jennifer Rowe: jrowe@d204.lths.net

Mr. Ed Piotrowski: epiotrowski@d204.lths.net

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