Planning your 2007-2008 Site-Based Induction System

Phil Schlecty (2005) defines Induction System as all social processes associated with ensuring that members are aware of and embrace the norms and values of the group or organization and that they possess the skills, attitudes and habits of mind necessary to fulfill the roles they are assigned to in the group or organization. Many districts provide mentors, however; mentors and induction are not synonymous; the terms are often misused (Wong 2002). According to the Southern Regional Board, teachers are twice as likely to remain in the classroom after the first year if they receive formal mentoring support, professional development, assessments, and interaction with veteran teachers.

As School Liaisons begin to plan their site-based Induction Programs for new teachers, the Goals of an Induction System should be taken into consideration.

Submitted by: Dr. Sheila Lewis, NESS Program Facilitator