SILSBEE, Texas — It's back to school time and for new teachers, starting a career in education can be tough.
That's why experienced teachers at Silsbee ISD have created a mentorship program for first timers to make the transition into the school year easier.
"It's very, very crucial for them to have someone that they can ask simple questions to. Or just lift them up on the hard days," said David Eller, a teacher at Silsbee High School.
That is why a few weeks before school begins, first time teachers are being paired up with their more seasoned counterparts as a teacher mentor.
"No matter what level of education you have or experience to come in and to have someone that's willing to help guide them through that first year," said Eller.
Before becoming a teacher, David Eller graduated from Silsbee High School in 2015. There he fell in love with the FFA program.
"Went to Sam Houston University where I got my bachelors in agriculture. From there I went to Texas State and got a masters in student affairs in higher ed," said Eller.
Now he's ready to transition and be a new teacher at his alma mater.
"I'll be teaching animal science courses, primarily small animal management. We'll be talking about exotic animals dogs and cats and getting students some hands on experience we'll also be doing livestock production," said Eller.
Teacher Mentors like Champagne can also observe their mentees in class, and provide constructive feedback. She says this gives them skills to stay in the field for the long haul.
"I remember when I started many years ago. I didn't have this program. And I've seen with this program being established at Silsbee that it's really helped with teacher retention. Which as we all know is a dire problem in the state," Champagne said.
Eller says that he is grateful to see how far the agricultural department has come, and glad to be teaching back at his alma mater.
"It's exciting to see it growing and getting larger. And I'm glad to be a part of that now and give back to the community that gave a lot to me," said Eller.
With this new program Silsbee ISD hopes to continue to foster the growth of first time educators like Eller, and give them all the tools they need to have a long and successful career.
GET NEWS & WEATHER ALERTS | Download the 12News App to your mobile device