Frequently Asked Questions

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HOW DO I BECOME A MENTOR?

To begin the process of becoming a mentor, contact the YES Mentoring Coordinator by either phone at 623-6635 or e-mail at craigp@roschools.com and request an application.  Once you complete and return the application, a criminal background check will be done.  If there are no  problems with the returned background check, the coordinator will set up a time to meet with you for training. The training consists of an overview of the program, roles of the mentor and mentee, ideas for mentoring, and other pertinent information.  A mentor agreement form signed by you must be submitted.  The next step is matching you with a student.  For more information, please visit 'How To Become A Mentor' on the homepage.

HOW IS A STUDENT REFERRED TO THE PROGRAM?

A student is referred to our program through a variety of ways.  They can be referred by a guidance counselor, teacher, parent or another caring adult.  We ask anyone referring a child to the program to complete a student referral and return it to the program coordinator.  This gives us information about the child and why they are being referred.  All information remains confidential and will only be shared with the program coordinator and their mentor.  If you would like to refer a child to the program, please contact the YES Mentoring Coordinator  Peggy Craig at 623-6635. 

WHO AUTHORIZES THE CHILD'S PARTICIPATION IN THE PROGRAM?

Once a referral has been submitted, the program coordinator contacts the students' family; explanation of the program and it's benefits are presented.  We will interview the parent(s)/guardian(s) so that we can determine the needs of the child and how we might help.  This is the time we get to know the child and ask that a child background form be completed.  The data collected on this form gives us information about them like what their interests are, what kind of foods they like or dislike, how many brothers or sisters they have, do they have any pets?  We want them to feel as comfortable with the process as possible which in turn helps make the transition into the program a smooth one.  Once that is completed, a parental agreement form must be completed and returned to the program director authorizing their child to participate in the program.  

HOW IS A MENTORING RELATIONSHIP COORDINATED?

Once the program coordinator receives all of the necessary paperwork, we can begin the process to match a child with an adult.  Waiting mentors will receive student referral information to review.  If they feel they would like to proceed, we then contact the parent(s)/guardian(s).  The parent(s)/guardian(s) are given information about the adult to review.  If they feel they would like to proceed, the program coordinator contacts both parties and arranges a contact meeting.  The program coordinator, mentor, student and family will meet for a brief introduction.  This is a great time for everyone to get to know each other and schedule the mentor/mentee's first day together.  If at any time either party has concerns or questions, we ask them to contact the coordinator immediately.  This should be a fun, positive experience for everyone involved.