Mentor Teacher Spotlight: Jason Bressman
This quarter we are thrilled to spotlight mentor teacher Jason Bressman, who teaches math at Mullanphy Elementary School. Originally from Michigan, Jason has been teaching for St. Louis Public Schools for 6 years and is a mentor to two STLTR residents.
Q: What led you to become a mentor teacher this year with STLTR?
A: I decided to become a mentor teacher because of my desire to develop skills for a future leadership position. I felt that working with the STLTR not only gave me a great opportunity to coach and develop future teachers of St. Louis Public Schools, but also provided me with a means to improve my own craft and practices through the feedback from STLTR staff and coaches.
Q: What has surprised you about your experience as a mentor teacher?
A: I have been pleasantly surprised at how open both of my residents are to receiving feedback. They not only take constructive criticism well, but often immediately implement the feedback given in the very next period. This openness has really helped them in their development.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a new teacher, what would it be?
A: If I could give one piece of advice to a new teacher, it would be to take your time and build strong relationships with your students early on. In doing so, students will ultimately respond better, and a culture for learning will be established that will last the entire school year.
