From a Center-based Apprentice in Coeur d' Alene:

"I just wanted to drop you a note to say, 'Thank You' for providing such a wonderful and necessary mentor program. I've been involved with T.E.A.C.H.® and the mentor program since January 2003 and I can't express the invaluable insight, knowledge and confidence I have gained through this program and my mentor. I have met diligently, once a week, with her and have spent endless hours on the phone with questions regarding any concerns I may have with the growth and development of our program or myself! She has always been able to steer me in a positive direction when I am presented with a challenge, whether with a child, parent or even a staff member! Without the Mentor Program, I would have to face these issues with no background, no support and no consistency. The Mentor Program provides a balance throughout the childcare community where we can all work towards a common goal of quality and educated childcare programs.

"I believe that all the incentive programs, especially the Mentor Program offered to help us become better educated and better educators, will lead to a strong and respected profession that we are proud to dedicate our futures to!"

From a Family Child Care Mentor/Coach in Boise:

"Because Family Child Care (FCC) providers mostly work alone in their homes, isolation and burn-out are very common feelings. Mentoring is especially valuable to FCC providers because it breaks the isolation. It gives you someone to bounce ideas off of and someone to share your frustrations and recognize your celebrations. As a mentor, I have definitely benefited and learned as much (if not more) than my protégé."

From a Center-based Mentor/Coach in Boise:

"The apprenticeship program is one of the most positive and rewarding experiences I've ever had the pleasure to be involved with. I have been a mentor for 11/2 years. It is hard work, but the benefits are great. I watch my apprentices grow and blossom daily. I have seen my apprentices exhibit more self-confidence, resiliency, and improved communication skills, to name a few. They have become more knowledgeable in many areas, had successes with new ideas in the classroom, and worked toward goals that benefit the entire center. I learn from them as much as I teach them. I have been through the ups and downs and ins and outs of the T.E.A.C.H.® program. I have made bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime. Through the apprenticeship program, I have had many opportunities for training, enrichment, and networking. This in turn has made me a better teacher. The commitment is worth it because everyone benefits from this quality program!"

From a Family Child Care Apprentice:

"Being in the Mentors for Early Care and Education program, as an apprentice, has benefited me in many ways. It has allowed me to get to know another experienced Family Child Care provider, whom I've been able to learn from, share ideas with and vent frustrations concerning our business. I've benefited from the education I've been able to achieve and the opportunity to continue to further my education. But most of all, I have a friend and Mentor who recognizes the huge differences between Daycare Centers and Home Family providers that I can discuss and compare any issues I may have with her."

Mentor/Coach and Apprentice