Mentor: APS Family Liaison Roy Smith

• Why did you become a mentor? I feel that I am helping this young man become a productive member of the community.
• What activities do you do with your mentee? How often do you meet? I meet with him and call him on a regular basis. I also check in with his mother and counselor to see how he's doing in school. Since I know his entire family and have worked with his older brothers, I also spend time with him during the summer.
• What changes have you seen in your mentee since you have been meeting? I have worked with him since he was in the fourth grade. I've seen him grow up to be an outstanding young man.
• Why is it important for APS staff to become mentors? It is very important for young people to have someone other than their parents to be involved in their lives and impact their success.

Mentee: Rangeview Senior Adrian Clark

• What does it mean to you to have a mentor? Mr. Smith helps me to stay focused and keeps me in check. He checks on my grades and is always there for me when I need him.
• What have you learned from your mentor? Mr. Smith is a role model for me. He has exposed me to so much. I see his success and that encourages me to be successful.
• Why is it important for kids to have mentors? Many of the other students in my school don't really talk to their parents and have no other person to talk to. Mr. Smith is another source for me when I need help or encouragement.

Superintendent John Barry has challenged all APS staff members to become mentors. To learn more about the APS mentoring program, visit
www.aps.k12.co.us/supt/mentors.