The qualities TEXT seeks in a good mentor include: teaching excellence and a continued desire to learn; openness and willingness to share ideas and philosophies; professionalism and experience; and maintenance of a high level of communication and organizational skills.

TEXT Mentors may serve in some or all of the following ways in introducing Avila students to the classroom in their initial education course, titled “Practicum:”

• Mentoring a student by allowing him or her to observe and work as an assistant in the classroom.
  
  
• Discussing with the student one’s views and experiences in education, philosophy, and beliefs about teaching and strategies for student success.
  
  
• Allowing the Practicum student to assist with extra duty assignments (hallway and/or restroom supervision, recess, lunch duty, bus duty, etc.), as well as attend faculty meetings, staffings, parent conferences, PTA, and department or team meetings.
  
  
• Completing an evaluation of a student’s classroom Practicum experience. The completed evaluations assist Avila University’s School of Education in providing an early assessment of teaching skills and professional dispositions, allowing for appropriate counseling and intervention.