The Okaloosa County Take Stock in Children program is seeking community mentors to support local high school students in grades 9-11 during the upcoming school year.
- Mentors will help students stay on track academically, build confidence and plan for their futures through regular meetings at the student’s school.
“We invite community members to search their hearts and consider giving just a small portion of their time to invest in a student’s future,” said Lori Lipnicky, College Success Coach for the Okaloosa County TSIC program. “Mentoring changes lives — and not just for the student.”
Prospective mentors must complete an online application and undergo background checks and fingerprinting in partnership with the Okaloosa County School District. A mentor training session will be offered in August, typically lasting one to two hours.
- Mentors commit to meeting with their assigned student at least 15 times during the school year for approximately 30 minutes every other week. The program provides resources and discussion guides to support each mentoring session.
Mentors log their meetings through a mobile app that also allows secure communication between mentor and student.
The program encourages participation from individuals, local businesses, civic organizations and community leaders. Those interested can find more details and begin the application process here.
For more information, contact Lori Lipnicky at LipnickyL@okaloosaschools.com.
