ACE matches students with mentors who volunteer time to provide positive reinforcement
FREMONT - The Fremont City Schools ACE mentoring program − Assisting Children to Excel − is a beacon of support and guidance for junior high and high school students.
The program is for students who need a little extra encouragement, support or someone with whom they can speak.
The comprehensive program pairs students with volunteers from outside sources who have dedicated their time to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals.
Mentors are matched to youths with similar interests
“These mentors are individuals who have volunteered their time to make a positive impact on the lives of our students,” said Susan Frye, interventionist with the ACE. “The program operates during the school day, with mentors and mentees meeting for 30 to 45 minutes weekly in a secure space within the school premises.”
The mentors come from various backgrounds including retired teachers, community members and local business owners. They undergo training and background checks to ensure the safety and well-being of the mentees. Mentors are neutral guides who offer support, encouragement and guidance to the students, creating a positive influence on their academic and personal development.
“One of the key aspects of the ACE mentoring program is to match up the mentors and the mentees, and I have a checklist to fill out to see if they have the same interest,” she said.
The program is open to anyone willing to commit to making a difference in the life of a student. They are not authoritative figures, but rather neutral guides who offer support, encouragement and guidance to the students.
“Anyone from the outside community willing to volunteer their time is welcome, we are always in need of mentors,” Frye added.
ACE program always looking for more volunteers
The relationships formed through ACE often extend beyond the school walls. Mentors like Bob Gross from the City of Fremont have been with the program for years, forming strong bonds with their mentees. Some up to graduation and beyond.
“I asked to be a mentor a few years ago. I thought it was a wonderful way to give back and connect with the youth of our community. I love knowing I have a lasting impact on young trying to figure out life,” said Gross, the economic development director for Fremont. “Helping a young person deal with the challenges of life to help them graduate and prepare for the next challenge, is great. I’ve been a mentor for right years.”
The ACE mentoring program was started by Dr. Gayle Jackson in 2002 and later coordinated by Vi Rhea, Susan Frye and Cassandrea Tucker. Currently, Frye runs the junior high and high school programs and has about 36 mentor-mentored matches at FMS and Ross.
The program is funded in part by the United Way of Sandusky County and the Family and Children First Council of Sandusky County, with additional support from businesses and organizations.
This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: Fremont City Schools uses ACE to give students extra support
