• Staff members volunteer to spend some time each week with a student who might benefit from developing a supportive relationship with another adult. Mentors give their students, known as mentees, the kind of encouragement and understanding that builds a child's self confidence and independence. Mentoring provides children with other caring adults they can share their news and concerns. A mentor in no way replaces the parent. The mentor provides interested, compassionate adult support. Last year many staff members were able to have a positive impact on their mentees.