Idaho Mentoring Program
The Idaho Mentoring Program (IMP), led by the Idaho Department of Education in partnership with the Idaho State Board of Education, is designed to support early-career teachers across Idaho. This program connects first-, second-, and third-year teachers with experienced mentors and collaborative cohorts to strengthen instructional practice, build professional confidence, and improve student outcomes.
IMP prioritizes educators working in rural remote and rural distant school districts, particularly those who may not have access to in-building mentoring support.
Program Highlights
- Meets Certification Requirement in Idaho Code 33-1201a
Any instructional staff employee or any pupil service staff employee will receive mentoring as outlined in such employee’s individualized professional learning plan during the initial three (3) years of holding such certificate. - Personalized Mentor Matching
Teachers are paired with trained mentors based on grade level, subject area, and individual professional needs. - Statewide Cohort Experience
Engage with a network of peers across Idaho, building connection and shared learning through monthly cohort meetings. - Flexible Online Learning Platform
Participate in structured professional learning pathways through the Canvas platform, accessible anywhere. - Ongoing One-on-One Support
Receive monthly individualized support through mentor check-ins focused on instructional growth and problem-solving. - Professional Development & Growth
Access curated resources, structured learning modules, and opportunities to earn continuing education credits. - Focus on Teacher Retention & Student Success
The program is designed to reduce teacher attrition and increase student achievement through sustained, meaningful support.
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is open to:
- Teachers seeking additional mentorship and professional support
- Idaho-certified teachers in their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year (priority is given to those in rural remote and rural distant LEAs)
- Educators currently teaching in a public Idaho K-12 school
Application Information
Administrator referral is encouraged, though self-enrollment is available with administrator approval. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority consideration for submissions received by August 21, 2026.
Selected participants will be notified via email following the review process, with mentor assignments provided upon acceptance.
Why Join IMP?
The Idaho Mentoring Program was built to meet the Idaho Mentor Standards and offers more than professional development—it provides a community of support, a personalized coaching experience, and a pathway to long-term success in the teaching profession.
Mentor and mentee matches will be made based on content area, grade level, and specific mentee needs in correlation to mentor experience. Mentees will receive professional development resources and mentoring within a cohort throughout the 2026-2027 school year.