Early Childhood Mentor Network
What are the Early Childhood Networks (ECN)?
The Early Childhood Networks (ECN), under the guidance of CNM Ingenuity, are a collaborative group of early childhood professionals. We connect early childhood programs, educators, and communities; provide learning experiences for the next generation of early childhood educators; and support recruitment and retention in the field.
A system of support for professional growth in early childhood careers
The Early Childhood Network (ECMN), under the guidance of CNM Ingenuity, are a collaborative group of early childhood professionals. ECN serves teachers, directors, home-based providers, practicum students, and those new in their career.
Quality programs that support New Mexico’s young children and families depend upon a dedicated, experienced workforce. One way that the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) supports early educators and caregivers to advance in knowledge, connect with others, and grow professional opportunities is through mentorship and networking.
CONTACT:
Michelle Jewett
Early Childhood Networks Program Director, CNM Ingenuity
ecmn@cnm.edu
505-224-3606
ECMN provides Mentor Certification, professional development, networking, support, and opportunities to engage in reflective practice with colleagues throughout New Mexico.
Applications open April 1. Visit the Early Childhood Networks website at ecnetworks.org for more information.
For Mentors
What are the Benefits?
-
- Helping to shape the next generation of Early Childhood professionals in a growing community support system
- ECECD Mentorship Certificate
- Professional development and learning opportunities
- Ongoing guidance from Mentor Network leadership
- Reflective practice and networking with colleagues
- Stipends for mentoring
Mentors: click here to learn more about eligibility, access, what to expect and the mentorship process:
For Mentors
Eligibility
- Associate’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Multicultural Education or similar educational degree
- 3 years of classroom experience
- Interest in mentoring pre-service teachers
- Direct experience with New Mexico families
Access
- Apply online to become a mentor at Early Childhood Networks.
- Answer questions about your experience, education, and interest in becoming a mentor
- Include references, recommendation from director, and resume
Process
- Applications are accepted each year through June 15.
- Once accepted, a new mentor attends a welcome workshop and orientation and is paired with a cohort that is overseen by a Lead Mentor for training and advisement.
- Training, provided at no cost, is required to receive your Mentorship Certificate from the State.
- Once training is complete, mentors receive a State Mentorship Certificate, become part of the statewide network, and may be paired with local students.
- Time commitment of mentors varies.
- Mentors meet with the network virtually each month to share experiences and knowledge with their peers and meet in person two times per year.
- Mentors find that the experience invigorates their own career, and leadership is applied in their workplace.
For Students
What are the Benefits?
- Connection with a trusted Early Childhood mentor for guidance and encouragement
- High-quality learning experiences on the path to becoming an educator
- Workforce development pipeline to job opportunities after graduation
Students: click here to learn more about eligibility, access, what to expect:
For Students
Eligibility
- Final year of an Associate’s Degree program in an Early Childhood track from an
accredited New Mexico school - Practicum study in a lab school center or other local Early Childhood center
- Mentorship opportunities for the Infant-Toddler Teacher Network are being developed with specific requirements
- Visit the Early Childhood Networks website for updated information
Access
- Talk with a faculty advisor and express interest in connecting with a mentor
- Faculty works to pair students with an experienced professional in the Mentor Network
What to Expect
- Practicum faculty match each interested student with a mentor, preferably in their community for easy access, one-on-one learning, and local knowledge.
- The mentor meets with the mentee in the classroom/virtual classroom during the practicum year to observe and offer insights and support.
- Time commitment varies.
- Strong bonds develop and the mentor relationship often lasts beyond the college program.
- Students are encouraged to continue their education and earn a Bachelor’s Degree.
- Positive mentorship experience and community connections lead to high levels of success with job placement and career confidence.
- Former mentees give back by mentoring others.
Hear from Mentors and Students
Current Networks and Programs
Early Childhood Mentor Network Information
The Early Childhood Mentor Network is a system of support for professional growth in early childhood careers.
Updated May 2023
The Early Childhood Director Network (ECDN)
The Early Childhood Director Network (ECDN) is a collaborative network of childcare center directors and leaders who are interested in sharing experiences and innovative ideas, reflecting, and learning from each other. The ECDN strengthens developing relationships, encourages collaboration, and promotes diversity in early childhood education. Our state-wide network provides professional development, networking, and support for center leaders and directors.
Applications are accepted through July 31.
Visit ecnetworks.org for more information and links to apply.
Updated May 2023
The Home-Based Provider Network (HBPN)
The Home-Based Provider Network provides professional development and support to home-based programs. While supporting registered and licensed homes, the network grows connections amongst program staff statewide. Meeting in the evenings to accommodate the needs of the programs, the network is led by professionals in the field who provide training and development on topics relevant to the field. While the monthly meetings are held online, there are opportunities for in-person events in the fall and spring to come together to collaborate and celebrate.
Applications are accepted April 1 – July 31.
Visit ecnetworks.org for more information and links to apply.
Updated May 2023
The Infant Toddler Teacher Network
The first 3 years of life is a time of tremendous growth; a vital period of brain development, when children are learning and discovering every moment they are awake. Teachers guiding children in this age group are critically important. The Infant-Toddler Teacher Network provides professional development, tools, information, and best practices to be used right away, tailoring the ongoing support and development to align with infant and toddler teachers’ focus. If you are a teacher working with children from birth to 36 months, or if you have a passion for this age group, consider joining the Infant-Toddler Teacher Network. Applications are accepted April 1 – July 31.
Visit ecnetworks.org for more information and links to apply.
Updated May 2023
Infant-Toddler Pre-Mentor Program
The Infant-Toddler Pre-Mentor Program offers infant-toddler educators the ability to serve as mentors while working toward an associate degree. Participants must commit to completing their degree within three years, at which point they are eligible to become full mentors. Pre-mentors are subject to the same requirements as full mentors, including monthly meeting attendance, and receive a reduced stipend. Infant-toddler educators interested in serving as pre-mentors must first apply to the Infant-Toddler Teacher Network. The Infant Toddler Pre-Mentor Program provides mentor certification, professional development, networking, and support for early childhood educators throughout New Mexico.
Applications are accepted April 1 – June 15.
Visit ecnetworks.org for more information and links to apply.
Updated May 2023