LDA Mentoring Makes a Difference
The LDA Mentor Program is a statewide initiative that supports new special education teachers through structured, relationship based mentoring. Unlike traditional professional development or supervision, LDA’s mentoring model provides individualized, sustained support from experienced educators who understand both the rewards and realities of teaching students with disabilities. The goal is simple but powerful – help new teachers stay in the profession, grow in their confidence, and find balance in their work.
Why Mentoring?
Teaching special education can be both deeply meaningful and incredibly demanding. New teachers often face heavy caseloads, complex student needs, and the pressure of managing paperwork, instruction and collaboration all at once. The LDA Mentor Program was designed by local experts: administrators, teachers, higher education faculty, and parents, who know these challenges firsthand. Our approach is practical, personal and purposeful. Mentors meet regularly with new teachers for guided reflection, problem-solving, and wellness check-ins. Mentors receive ongoing training in helping skills, coaching strategies, and professional growth tools designed specifically for special educators.
A Local Leader in Teacher Support
Through the Mentor Program, LDA provides structured mentoring aligned with Minnesota’s Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) standards and the state’s teacher retention initiatives. Mentors are trained using the New Teacher Center framework and receive ongoing guidance from the LDA Mentor Manager to ensure consistent, high-quality support.
We are proud to partner with INDIGO Education, a Minnesota-based nonprofit known for advancing innovation and leadership in special education. Together, LDA and INDIGO strengthen educators, creating a community of professional learning and mutual support.
A Focus on Connection and Retention
The LDA Mentor Program reflects the organization’s long-standing commitment to equity, inclusion, and access. Mentors are trained to apply culturally responsive mentoring practices to engage in self-reflection using the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). Every relationship begins with listening, understanding, and meeting teachers where they are. The program’s ultimate goal is to improve teacher retention in special education across Minnesota. By combining skill development, reflective dialogue, and emotional support, mentors help new teachers sustain their passion and purpose in this vital field.
Flexible and Accessible
Mentor and mentee meetings occur biweekly through flexible formats that fit the realities of teaching life – in person, online or by phone. Monthly mentor training sessions and community meetings provide shared learning and encouragement. As a nonprofit, LDA ensures that mentoring remains accessible, affordable, and mission-driven, supported by grants and community partnerships.
Join the Network
Becoming an LDA Mentor means joining a statewide movement to strengthen special education through care, competence, and collaboration. Experienced educators who serve as mentors gain new professional insight, contribute to teacher retention, and make a lasting difference for both teachers and students.