LEAD Public Schools

January is National Mentoring Month – and LEAD Academy participates in a unique mentoring program for juniors and seniors called Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). 

After students express an interest in the program and participate in an interview process with BBBS of Middle Tennessee, they are matched with a mentor. Mentors and mentees are paired based on common interests, backgrounds, hobbies, and career goals. 

Mentors serve as a positive friend and confidante for their mentee. Students and their mentors check in with each other on a weekly basis, either with in-person meetings at school, virtual meetings, or phone calls. These meetings include character-building activities, as well as career and goal exploration. 

“The impact is already evident in the students’ participation in weekly meetings,” said Dina Nero-Givens, who leads the program at LEAD Academy and serves as manager of career and technical education. “Being able to communicate with someone who has a similar interest, background, career goal, and experience is very helpful to students.”

Not only do students participate in weekly check-ins, they also have the opportunity to attend additional events focused on career exploration and goal setting. Juniors and seniors ventured to the Music City Center last semester for micro-mentoring sessions, as well as to the SiriusXM Nashville corporate office to learn about the entertainment industry through panel discussions, breakout sessions, and a facilities tour. 

“Additional opportunities are being scheduled for the second semester to include panel discussions with LEAD Public Schools alumni and guest speakers,” shared Nero-Givens. “They’ll also participate in resume building and interview workshops, as well as celebrations for our graduating seniors.”  

“While we focus on getting students ready for college and and ready for life, many of them need extra support, perspective, and guidance in navigating high school and life beyond high school. These mentors are available to listen, question, guide, and support during typical and challenging times.” –Dina Nero-Givens, Manager of Career & Technical Education, LEAD Academy  

Students who are part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program made a conscious decision to participate. That commitment identifies their desire for support in determining and building their futures – and the program is an important tool for helping them navigate what comes beyond their time at LEAD. 

“While there are other activities going on at LEAD Academy at the same time, the students make an effort to check in and participate,” said Nero-Givens. “I am encouraged by their commitment to the program and their excitement about this life-changing opportunity.”