Lewis Central highlights Teammates mentoring: 52 active matches, more than 60 students waiting

Lewis Central Community School District recognized volunteers and students involved with Teammates, a school-based one-on-one mentoring program, at the board meeting.

The program coordinator told the board Teammates — a mentoring model founded by former Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne — operates during the school day and focuses on building relationships rather than academic remediation. "On average, our matches are meeting 24 times a year," the coordinator said, adding the district currently has 52 active matches and a waiting list of more than 60 children.

The coordinator cited evaluation data submitted to Teammates National showing positive survey results: 90% of mentees say they are proud to be in Teammates, 80% report increased hopefulness about the future, nearly 60% show academic improvement, 87% report fewer disciplinary referrals and 71% report fewer unexcused absences.

Several mentors and mentees spoke about their experiences. Anne Morgan, a mentor, said she enjoys "being a positive, caring adult" and recalled special activities such as a zoo day. Linda Hahn, who recently retired, described weekly activities with her mentee — crafts, games and music — calling mentoring "the highlight of my week." Colin Fast, a teacher and mentor, described the short weekly meetings as an important break and a chance to connect with students; Rod Hurley described a train-model project that transformed his mentee’s engagement.

Board members asked practical questions about recruitment and logistics; the coordinator said mentors undergo background checks and training and that most meetings occur during lunch or study hall. The coordinator urged volunteers to come forward to reduce the waiting list and said the district will present certificates and gifts and take a group photo after questions.

The presentation served as a recognition of volunteers and a call for more mentor recruitment to meet student demand.