The mentor program is amazing and valuable.  This article was merely an overview of the magic these highly skilled teachers provide by mentoring brand new teachers. Retention of teachers is one of the biggest obstacles Alaska faces. I applaud this unique method of recognizing the problem and attempting to overcome it. I personally know the amount of time, effort and heart that these mentors put into the program.  There is a benefit for our students, families, and the state as a whole by creating a stable base of skilled educators.

The comments offered previously are hurtful and undermine a sense of community.  If you don't know the facts; you have no business offering an opinion that promotes lies and negativity.  During a fiscal crisis, Alaskans need to come together to support programs that have a proven success rate and benefit us all.  Thank you Alaska educators for your dedication in such a thankless effort.  I hope that the majority of Alaskans feel the same as I do.