Monthly Mentor Meetings

Monthly Mentor Meetings is a new program designed to bring art educators together for rich, collaborative conversations. Each session offers a space to explore classroom strategies, share insights, and connect with others who are passionate about art education. 

Why Join?
This pilot program is more than professional development—it’s a chance to engage with a vibrant community of educators who understand your journey. Through thoughtful dialogue and shared experiences, you’ll gain new tools, fresh perspectives, and renewed excitement in your teaching journey.  

Program Goals: 
- Connect art educators with mentorship, encouragement, and real-world support
- Foster ongoing professional growth through shared expertise
- Build community through authentic, meaningful conversations
- Share proven strategies and resources to elevate classroom practice 

What to Expect:
Members will meet virtually for an hour-long session filled with collaborative discussion, teaching applications, and actionable takeaways. These meetings are intended to be energizing, reflective, and immediately beneficial for your teaching practice. Each month, a different Mentor Teacher will share their insights and expertise, providing participants with the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable knowledge to enhance their teaching methods. 

Meetings will not be recorded to encourage members to ask questions and seek authentic feedback. After each Monthly Mentor Meeting, short video resources and handouts will be available here.

Benefits for Attendees: 
- Guidance and encouragement from experienced teachers
- Practical resources and effective teaching strategies
- Opportunities to build lasting professional connections 

Who Can Join? 
This program is designed primarily to support preservice and early-career art teachers, but all NAEA members are encouraged to participate—whether you’re starting your teaching journey or are an experienced educator.

2025–2026 Meeting Dates: All sessions are held online from 7:00–8:00 pm ET.
- Tuesday, October 28, 2025
- Tuesday, November 18, 2025 
- Thursday, January 29, 2026
- Tuesday, February 17, 2026
- Thursday, April 2, 2026
- Thursday, May 7, 2026

Registration: Click on the "Upcoming Meetings" tab during each live event to join us! 

Questions? Reach out to Paula Liz, NAEA’s Youth and Preservice Program Manager, at pliz@arteducators.org. 

Learn more about exclusive Preservice member benefits and Preservice Student Chapters.