Each January, mentoring is recognized nationwide for the positive impact it has on helping children increase self-esteem and improve academic achievement. In Flour Bluff ISD, approximately 75 dedicated community members meet with students for one hour each week during the school year to be a positive role model through the H.O.S.T.S. Mentoring program. Established in September 2014, the FBISD H.O.S.T.S (Helping Our Students Succeed) program connects community members with at-risk students in grades 3rd through 12th to provide support, counsel and friendship.
“The H.O.S.T.S. mentoring program not only provides a positive adult role model for students but it builds a long-standing relationship for the student that continues through graduation,” said Dr. Linda Barganski, Director of Special Programs.
Students in grades third through twelfth grades may be nominated for the H.O.S.T.S. program by teachers, school staff, parents and counselors. The District then works to pair students with mentors that can help students become successful learners, increase self-esteem and reinforce positive attitudes and behavior.
During the January meeting of the Flour Bluff ISD Board of Trustees, the 2019-2020 H.O.S.T.S. mentors were recognized by the Board to thank each of them for their dedication to FBISD students as well as shed a light on the need for more individuals to join the program. Mentors are a powerful role that helps shape a child’s life.
Individuals interested in becoming a mentor can find out more about the program by visiting, https://flourbluffschools.net/resources/community/h-o-s-t-s-mentoring-program/ or by contacting the H.O.S.T.S. Program District Coordinators, Dr. Linda Barganski (361.694.9230) or Bryant Gray (361.694.9349).