Mentors can improve student achievement

Published 4:30 pm Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Superintendent Chip Jones’ plan to support Prince Edward students is personal.

Jones, Ed.D., is asking members of the community to take a stake in the success of students by volunteering as mentors.

The mentorship program he’s proposing is designed to “boost academic growth, and foster strong and positive relationships,” he said.

The program will focus on students in third through eighth grades because that’s where Jones sees the greatest academic need and the most opportunity to accelerate growth.

Through various assessments monitored throughout each nine-week period — including classroom assessments, benchmark tests, and state measures — the district has identified gaps in reading comprehension, problem-solving, and foundational math skills. These areas will guide how mentors and volunteers support students.

“We will track results through ongoing assessments, progress monitoring, attendance and participation logs and feedback from students, volunteers and teachers,” he said. “We will review data each nine weeks to measure growth and make adjustments as needed.”

Volunteers should go into the process with a genuine interest in helping students and possess strong communication skills. The ability to maintain confidentiality is a must.

A background check is required and basic training will be provided.

“Academic expertise is welcome but not required — consistency, encouragement, and commitment are what matter most,” Jones said. “We welcome all individuals who want to support our students, and we are always accepting applications for volunteers.”

Jones, who started a five-year contract with the Prince Edward County School District in July, said he values community partnerships and has seen firsthand in other districts how mentoring, tutoring, and community engagement significantly improve student achievement and school culture.

“Prince Edward County is a community that shows up for its young people, and this program is another opportunity for us to work together to support the growth and success of all students,” he said. “When schools and communities unite, our students rise.”

The program will be funded through a combination of grants and existing instructional support allocations. The district is always pursuing additional grant opportunities to ensure sustainability, he said.

For more information, call Prince Edward County Public Schools at 434-315-2100. The district reopened from winter break Monday, Jan. 5.

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