DeISD’s Student Support Services, DeSoto PD Partner to Create Mentorship Program for Scholars
The DeSoto Independent School District and DeSoto Police Department have developed a partnership under the Juvenile Truancy and Wellness Program to offer a uniquely tailored mentorship program consisting of the following for scholars who are at risk of being truant, are currently considered truant, or who have a history of truancy:
- a six-week Pathways to Success course geared towards 13-19-year-old scholars that will focus on anger management, positive decision-making, peer pressure, life skills, and developing positive relationships;
- grant-funded professional counseling services that will assist in addressing underlying issues that may be impacting the scholar and his or her family and parent and guardian workshops;
- weekly one-to-one mentoring program where scholars are matched with a trained, guided mentor who will support his or her journey through the school year.
“The program is specifically geared towards DeSoto ISD scholars and families,” said Taylor Combs, a DPD Youth Advocate. “We launched the program in September 2024 and are currently operating at the high school, with plans to expand to all campuses. We just need more volunteers who are interested in mentoring.”
This three-pronged approach to supporting scholars is called the L.I.T. Truancy and Wellness Program, funded by the Juvenile Justice and Truancy Prevention Grant Program. LIT, an acronym for “Lead. Instill. Teach.,” is seeking dedicated volunteers to join its mentorship team! As a mentor, volunteers will provide guidance, support, and encouragement to students who may be struggling with truancy, behavior, or personal challenges. Through weekly in-school mentoring sessions, you’ll help students set goals, build self-confidence, and develop positive decision-making skills.
Read below for more information related to serving as a mentor in this program:
Key Responsibilities:
- Meet with your assigned mentee once a week for a minimum of 30 minutes during the school day.
- Provide support and guidance, focusing on building self-esteem, improving school attendance, and making positive life choices.
- Collaborate with school staff, counselors, and program coordinators to ensure a cohesive support system for each student.
- Set and track short- and long-term goals with your mentee, encouraging consistent progress.
- Document meeting notes and maintain confidentiality regarding student interactions.
Qualifications:
- Minimum Age: 21 years or older.
- Commitment: Minimum of one school year with the possibility to extend based on program needs and volunteer availability.
- Experience: Prior experience working with youth or in mentoring roles is a plus but not required.
- Skills: Excellent listening skills, patience, empathy, and a passion for making a positive impact on young lives.
Requirements:
- Background Check: All volunteers are required to complete a background check before being cleared to work with students. This is to ensure a safe environment for students and maintain program integrity.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to positively impact a student’s life.
- Gain experience in mentoring and youth development.
- Flexible volunteer schedule within school hours.
Application Process:
Interested volunteers can apply by contacting Taylor Combs at [email protected], by phone at 682-540-7276 or by visiting the application link:
https://www.jotform.com/assign/240306146364147/240464189608059
Following the application submission and review, there will be a required background screening and group training session for the interested volunteers.
