The first years of teaching are exciting, exhilarating, and amazing. At the same time, they can be stressful, scary, and pressure-filled, especially for those who began their teaching career in the middle of a global pandemic.

That’s why the Illinois State Board of Education partnered with the Illinois Education Association and the Illinois Federation of Teachers to pair first-, second-, and third-year teachers and clinicians with mentors in their building and virtual instructional coaches to help guide them through these unique years of teaching.

Each new educator receives a $500 participation stipend with access to a comprehensive library of resources aligned to the Danielson Framework.

Prior to August 15th, apply by sending an email message stating your interest including your name, year of teaching, teaching area, and school to:

Mary Jane Morris| IEA Director 

IEA Teaching & Learning IEA/NEA

cell 618 889 7948 | maryjane.morris@ieanea.org

The Illinois Virtual Instructional Coach and Building Mentor Program offers the following comprehensive supports:

• A virtual instructional coach, certified in the same area of instruction, who is trained to provide support for beginning teachers in instructional practices (including virtual instruction), social-emotional learning, and trauma-informed practices;
• A trained and certified building mentor whose sole responsibility is to make the new teacher feel welcomed, supported, and connected in their new school;
• Access to a robust virtual coaching platform with an online library of resources and a way to connect to other first year teachers; and
• Support and feedback via one-on-one and small group virtual coaching sessions.