STUDENT SUPPORT Advisory

Program

Each student will be a member of a small group of advisees assigned to an adult member of the Beacon Academy faculty/staff. These advisors encourage individual interests and further a comfortable academic setting. Weekly meetings between students and advisors, regular individual conferences, and communication between families/caregivers and advisors create the basic structure of the Program.

Mentor Program

Each student and their parents/caregivers are matched with a Beacon Academy volunteer who will be their mentor for the year. Mentors are matched based on similar interests and the needs of the mentee (student) and parents/caregivers during the Academy Year. The role of a mentor is to provide support and guidance through the rigors of the school year and support their mentee in their transition to 9th grade and beyond. Mentors are encouraged to build a relationship and engage frequently with their mentee and their mentees’ parents/caregivers. The relationship is to be built on mutual respect and meet all parties where they feel most comfortable. Mentors are expected to:

• be responsible, caring, and an active listener;

• prioritize the student’s well-being;

• partner with the mentee and their parents/caregivers;

• communicate with the Beacon staff advisor; and

• advocate for educational equity.