The Ohio Parent Mentor Mentorship Program: Relationships Worth Celebrating

In the realm of education, the Ohio Parent Mentor Mentorship Program has emerged as a success, fostering meaningful relationships between experienced mentors and enthusiastic mentees. One example of this synergy is the partnership between Pam Thornburg, a seasoned Parent Mentor since 2003, and her mentee, Amy Beam, a new Parent Mentor representing the Zane Trace Local School District.

Pam Thornburg’s dedication to the Ohio Parent Mentor Mentorship Program represents her commitment to enhancing the special education process. Serving as a Parent Mentor for nearly two decades, Thornburg generously shares her wealth of expertise and navigational skills with new mentors in the program.

The Mentorship Program itself is a well-crafted initiative, designed to set up new Parent Mentors for success by facilitating quarterly meetings with fellow mentors. These gatherings serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, fostering a sense of community among mentors who play a vital role in supporting families navigating the complexities of the special education process.

Amy Beam, a Parent Mentor for the Zane Trace Local School District, is an enthusiastic fan of the mentorship dynamic. Acknowledging the pivotal role played by her mentor, Pam Thornburg,

Beam expresses her gratitude for the exceptional training received. “I am very grateful for her knowledge and leadership that has been so valuable as I was getting started in this role,” says Beam.

Beam further highlights Thornburg’s commitment by emphasizing the accessibility and openness displayed throughout their mentor/mentee relationship. Thornburg consistently organized meetings, providing a platform for Beam to delve into her mentor’s experiences and access valuable resources. Moreover, Thornburg’s support extended beyond the immediate mentorship, with regular updates on legal changes from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, ensuring that Beam and others in their region remained well-informed and prepared for opportunities that may arise.

Thank you to Mentors like Pam Thornburg, contributing not only to the professional growth of their mentees but also to the collective success of the entire program.