Trinity Christian Academy’s (TCA) learning lab teacher, Susan Gooch, is one of the special volunteers involved in the TCA student/teacher mentor program that supports and assists every eighth grade student in their journey of transitioning from middle to upper school. Each eighth grade student meets with their mentor at least once a month to devote time to the scripture, discuss topics pertinent to their life and assist in the community by participating in meaningful projects such as Operation Christmas Child and writing letters to the troops. The students also “adopt” a kindergarten class at TCA and read to them often.
The program has been in place for more than 10 years, and throughout those 10 years, Gooch has played a significant role in changing students’ lives. She says her favorite part of the whole experience is being able to work with children outside of her classes. The mentoring program allows her to reach a larger range of individuals, and she enjoys being able to support the young children who are growing into young adults. She still keeps in touch with many of her mentees and has continued to nurture them beyond their upper school years.