How Can Principals Help First-Year Teachers?
Teachers who worked in teams and with mentors, or who had continuous contact with other first-year teachers, relished the camaraderie. For many teachers, however, professional isolation proved difficult. These teachers spoke wistfully of the need for more guidance and support from veteran teachers as well as opportunities to work closely with colleagues. “I was surprised how isolated some teachers are. I believe that sharing ideas is what teaching is about.”—Colette L. Born, 5th grade, Idaho “I felt alone. It was my challenge, my work. There was no one else to help me meet a whole array of new challenges. I had to meet them by myself.”—Catherine McTamaney, 9th-12th grades, Tennessee “We are limiting ourselves by not being able to learn from each other.”—Michelle L. Graham, kindergarten and 1st grade, Minnesota In contrast, teachers who received the attention and support of their veteran colleagues found the experience indispensable. “I wouldn’t be here today without my mentor. He’s a m
