4. Your mentee becomes agitated over the possibility of not graduating. At this point, many kids become so discouraged they drop out. Would you refer the student to the principal, or aid in finding out if graduation is possible?

Answer: Don't jump to the conclusion that he/she is on the brink of dropping out. Before rushing to the Mentor Program Manager, take the time to hear your mentee out. We've all had times when we felt ready to throw in the towel. Help your mentee analyze the situation. Ask simple questions, step-by step. Why are you discouraged about your graduation chances? Is their one particular subject giving you difficulty? Tell me about it. What's the teacher like? How is school different this year from last?

Armed with some facts (or feelings), you may then wish to confer with the Mentor Program Manager, to determine what it is that is appropriate for you to offer in assistance.

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