Building Connection Through Mentorship
Written by Mr. Delpeche
Here at CIS, mentorship is more than a system for checking attendance or managing discipline. While the lower grade levels follow the traditional homeroom structure, our high school students are guided through a mentorship program designed to build stronger relationships and provide meaningful personal support.
Our high school students are divided into three mentorship groups, each led by both local and foreign mentors. This structure gives students the opportunity to connect with teachers from different backgrounds and perspectives, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
Mentor time provides students with a safe space to talk openly about school life, future plans, personal challenges, and daily experiences. It is a place where students can share their concerns, celebrate achievements, and receive guidance from adults they trust. These regular conversations help students feel heard, respected, and supported.
One student shared, “The mentorship programs are really helpful for talking about school life and future plans in college, allowing us to ask questions and gain advice from their mentors.” Another student explained that mentor time helps teachers better understand and support students, while also making school life feel more comfortable and connected.
Beyond conversations, mentors also help students develop important values such as responsibility, accountability, and honesty through weekly group activities and regular interaction. Students are given opportunities to reflect, contribute, and build stronger relationships with both peers and teachers.
As one mentor shared, “Understanding our students is the first step to serving them better and making the learning experience a human experience.”
Through mentorship, our school continues to create an environment where students feel seen, supported, and prepared not only for academic success, but for life beyond the classroom.
