How It Works
The SERVS program, Support Encouragement & Resources Vital to Success was developed to deliver assistance to new teachers, 3 or less years in the classroom or subject area. These new teachers need knowledge, support and positive teaching experiences to help them develop into successful career teachers.
To support the success and retention of teachers in this program, SERVS Educators work closely with the participants to help them improve their teaching by coaching, modeling and providing support. The intent of the program is to enhance and enrich the current teacher induction and site based peer mentor support system. In this program, teachers will support by FGCU experienced, qualified SERVS Educators, who will coach, model lessons, facilitate, cheerlead and guide.
Participating teachers "shop" for the SERVS Educator whom they feel would best match their particular needs and concerns. The on line directory allows search by grade level, "expertise" and county. SERVS Educators are available to offer assistance in a variety of areas such as grade level and/or subject matter expertise, use of technology, ESOL, classroom management, special education, differentiated instruction reading, etc. Through this approach, the teacher is able to benefit from more specialized expertise and also has the opportunity to observe different teaching styles. The teacher is in charge of both the selection process and the focus of the supports. SERVS Educators do not evaluate teacher practices but responds to the teacher request for assistance. Some teachers use their performance evaluation to guide the process, others self identify growth areas they wish to pursue.
Participating new teachers are also encouraged to participate in ongoing professional development opportunities such as graduate coursework, in-service training available through the various school districts, other conferences and training opportunities in the region.
SERVS Educators
To become a SERVS Educator you must hold a minimum of a Masters, be Clinical Educator certified and have extensive and recent classroom experience. It is also required that you have daytime availability to respond to teachers during the school day. Once approved participating teachers will be able to request your involvement through this website.
Teachers
Teachers eligible for SERVS are FGCU COE TIP participants.
