Most people find fulfillment by meaningfully giving back to those in need. Some Seguin ISD students have just a few trustworthy adults in their lives and need positive role models for perspective and caring support. The community’s need for fulfillment and students’ need for role models intersect at the district’s Mentoring Program.

Seguin ISD will hold two mentor interest and orientation sessions at which those interested in mentoring can ask questions and those committed to mentoring can receive some basic instruction. Community members are invited to attend in person or virtually on Wednesday, Sept. 21 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. or Friday, Sept. 23 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the district office located at 1221 E. Kingsbury St. Make a reservation at https://tinyurl.com/emeahdm9 or by contacting Kelly Donegan Follis, Seguin ISD director of community outreach, at 830.379.0325 or kfollis@seguin.k12.tx.us.

Heading up the Mentoring Program for Seguin ISD is Student Support Specialist Dr. Allison Willemin. She works with campus staff to identify students who may benefit from a little extra attention thanks to a mentor. She matches potential mentors with specific students and provides training as the new mentors step into their roles.

Dr. Willemin expressed gratitude and stressed the continued need for volunteers.

“I would like to thank the outstanding individuals who stepped up to be mentors in the past and to let the community know that there is always a need for more. The caring involvement of a community member can literally change the trajectory of an at-risk student’s life. It does take a little time to match students and to obtain parental permission, but we will get mentors matched with mentees as soon as possible,” she said.

Follis serves as the community’s initial liaison to the Mentoring Program and also volunteers as a mentor.

“When I decided to become a mentor, I did it to help a student see the benefits of staying in school and following the straight-and-narrow. What I found is joy in spending time with a bright, kind, and interesting young woman. My time as a mentor is as beneficial to me as I hope it is to her. It has been an honor to be a mentor and I plan to continue to participate in the program for years to come,” she said.

For more information on the Seguin ISD Mentoring Program, call 830.379.0325 or email kfollis@seguin.k12.tx.us.