The Student Mentoring Program – Is it Working; Why or Why Not?
female. The average age was 11.2 years old and 41 percent of the student’s was black or African American; 31 percent was Hispanic and 28 percent was Caucasian. 86 percent of the children were eligible for free or reduced price lunch; 56 percent came from two parent households; 60 percent was at academic risk and additionally 25 percent was at risk for delinquency. Finally, 26 percent of the students had prior mentoring.” An initial look at the program reveals at least in my opinion, mixed results. Mentors were supposed to have a background check. However, 11 percent reported not having one. Of interest the 32 grantees said everyone did have a background check. The study rather than indicating the grantees may not have been totally honest chose to state they were either unaware or possibly forgot. On the positive side 96 percent of the mentors received training. The next illustration is why I dislike the way the report is written. The report states “the majority of student’s were matche
