MENTORING IN KINDERGARTENS. EXPLORING THE VIEWS OF KINDERGARTEN PRINCIPALS ON THE CHARACTERISTICS OF AN EFFECTIVE MENTOR AND THE STRATEGIES FOLLOWED IN THE INTEGRATION PROCESS OF NEWLY APPOINTED TEACHERS

This study aims to investigate the views of kindergarten principals regarding the characteristics of an effective mentor and the strategies followed in the integration process of newly appointed teachers. By conducting qualitative research, the views on this topic of 15 kindergarten principals were explored using the research tool of semiprocessing, it emerged that kindergarten heads attribute to the effective mentor the characteristics of willingness, developed communication skills, and a positive attitude towards the mentored. In contrast, the training of mentors is considered a necessary condition for the effective performance of their role. In the process of smooth adaptation and integration of newly appointed teachers according to kindergarten supervisors, as strategies followed, the building of a relationship of trust and respect between mentor and mentee, the utilization of the mentor's communication skills, as well as the good mood and the time that an effective mentor devotes to the mentoring process in conjunction with the support of the institution by the school contribute to the process.