TeamMates
by Brian Slominski
TeamMates Mentoring Program, created by Dr. Tom and Nancy Osborne, is a school-based program designed to help increase a student’s support and opportunity for success. TeamMates at Otte Blair Middle School pairs a student who has demonstrated potential with a caring, trained adult from the community. The role of the mentor is to be a friend, a guide, and a partner in working toward a successful school and life experience. Activities include games, talking, doing homework, reading, or sharing a hobby.
* Sixth grade students may be nominated for participation in the program. Anyone may nominate a student. Students are admitted into the program on the basis of availability of mentors and potential benefit to the student.
* Mentors receive training and are screened through reference and background checks.
* A student and adult mentor meet together one hour a week at Otte Blair Middle School, during school hours.
* TeamMates is in the Blair Community Schools and in schools throughout Nebraska.
Benefits:
TeamMates Mentees benefit by:
- Receiving the support and guidance of a caring adult.
- Receiving assistance with the academic endeavors.
- Experiencing greater self-esteem and motivation to succeed.
- Receiving encouragement to stay in school and graduate.
- Receiving encouragement to avoid the use of drugs and alcohol.
- Improving interpersonal relationships with peers, teachers, and family.
- Receiving assistance in choosing a career path.
Hidden Benefits to Organizations Who Support Mentoring:
- Building teamwork skills.
- Improving morale.
- Increased productivity.
- Improved community relations and public image.
- Recruitment and retention of employees.
TeamMates Mentors benefit by:
- Increasing their involvement in the community.
- Recognizing they can make a difference.
- Gaining new experience and knowledge about youth and schools.
- Contributing to the quality of the future workforce.
Schools benefit by:
- Improving student academic performance.
- Improving student attendance.
- Improving attitude and social skills.
* How can you help?
Become a mentor! If you would like to help the youth in your community by becoming a mentor, please fill out a mentor application. Please mail your completed application to the TeamMates of Blair office.
Become a donor! Mail your contribution to TeamMates of Blair, P.O. Box 264, Blair, NE 68008. Private donations pay for administration and programs of TeamMates.
* For questions please contact:
Ann Hackerott, Coordinator
TeamMates of Blair
P.O. Box 264
Blair, NE 68008
Email: BlairTeamMates@dana.edu
Phone: (402) 426-7219
Office – Pioneer Memorial Building, 3rd floor (Room 316) Dana College
or
Brian Slominski, School Counselor
Otte Blair Middle School
P.O. Box 228
Blair, NE 68008
Email: Brian.Slominski@blairschools.org
Phone: (402) 426-3678
