How Sayville’s Mentoring Program Is Helping New Teachers Thrive

SAYVILLE, NY — Sayville Public Schools’ mentoring program is officially underway, pairing new staff members with experienced educators to help them thrive as they begin their teaching careers.

The districtwide initiative is designed to provide new teachers with support, structure, and confidence through regular check-ins, classroom guidance, collaborative planning, and professional conversations. Mentors work closely with mentees to navigate curriculum expectations, classroom management, and day-to-day responsibilities.

With trusted, hands-on guidance from seasoned educators, new teachers are able to build critical skills more quickly and gain confidence in the classroom. District officials said the program strengthens professional development while also benefiting students through higher-quality instruction.

As part of the initiative, mentor-mentee teams are highlighted each month for their growth and collaboration. Featured this month are mentor Beth Bolger and new teacher Emma Acevedo at Lincoln Avenue School.

“Having a mentor has helped me in so many ways,” Acevedo said. “When I’m facing a challenge, Beth guides me through it and points me in the right direction. She’s been an incredible support system and is already helping me become a better teacher.”

Bolger said mentoring new teachers allows her to strengthen the physical education program while supporting professional growth.

“I hope that by mentoring new teachers like Emma, I can help ensure our physical education program remains innovative, inclusive, and impactful,” Bolger said. “Through ongoing guidance and collaboration, I want her to feel confident, prepared, and excited about teaching elementary PE.”

District officials said Sayville looks forward to spotlighting additional mentor-mentee teams throughout the school year as the program continues to grow and make a meaningful impact.