The Importance of Mentorship

One issue that has been weighing heavily on my mind is the critical need for community, especially when it comes to mentorship and mutual support. Community can take many forms depending on individual needs, but one consistent element is the value of pouring into each other, whether through guidance, advice, or simply being there for one another.
I grew up in an under-resourced area, where the school environment often felt discouraging. Some of the teachers would label students and create divisions among us, making it difficult to foster a sense of community. I didn’t feel supported in my elementary school years, and the constant moving—attending three different elementary schools—only added to the feeling of instability. By the time I reached high school, that same sense of disconnect persisted. I attended two different high schools, and in my first one, I never felt that my teachers truly cared if I succeeded. The environment didn’t feel nurturing or collaborative; it felt like everyone was just getting by.
Despite this, I was fortunate to have a few teachers who stood out. They saw something in me and my peers that we didn’t always see in ourselves. They believed in our potential and pushed us to do better, even when it seemed like the odds were stacked against us.
One teacher, in particular, had a lasting impact on my life: Mr. Brenden Ratterman. Though he wasn’t officially my mentor, his role in my life was nothing short of transformative. He was my homeroom teacher, and he became a guiding force during my high school years.
What I appreciated most about him was his genuine care and belief in my potential. He challenged me to think critically and to push beyond my limits. He also nurtured my love for reading, introducing me to books that I never would have encountered on my own. These books—many of which I still own and read to this day—fed my curiosity and opened my eyes to new worlds.
But it wasn’t just the books. Mr. Ratterman exposed us to classical music, an art form that, for me, nourished my neurotypical brain in a way that felt deeply personal. It’s difficult to explain, but his lessons weren’t just academic—they were life-changing. Through his encouragement and the environment he created, I realized I could aspire to more than just “getting by.” I could aim for something greater. And because of him, I decided to transfer to a better school, one where I could truly challenge myself and set a course for a brighter future.
In the U.S., there is a strong cultural emphasis on independence, which can make asking for help difficult. This is especially true in my own culture as a Mexican-American, where there is a deep-rooted desire to help each other but also a tendency to avoid asking for assistance. We see success stories from college or high school students who have benefited from mentorship programs, but too often, we overlook those who are left behind.
Students with learning disabilities or those who are neurodiverse and undiagnosed often struggle in the educational system but are frequently labeled as "unintelligent" or "lazy." Many of these students face obstacles that aren't immediately visible or understood. Parents, especially in underserved communities, may not always be equipped with the knowledge or resources to support their children, and public schools—particularly those that are underfunded and understaffed—often fail to identify students who need extra help. Teachers are stretched thin and may not have the time or resources to properly diagnose or support students who are falling through the cracks.
This is where mentorship can make a profound difference. A mentor can help students navigate these challenges, offering guidance, understanding, and a sense of direction. Mentorship programs provide not just academic help but emotional and social support, enabling students to build resilience and confidence as they work through their obstacles. Research has shown that mentorship can improve academic performance, increase graduation rates, and provide the emotional tools students need to succeed.
Statistics to Highlight the Issue:
According to the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD), approximately 1 in 5 children in the U.S. have learning and attention issues, yet many remain undiagnosed or unsupported, particularly in underserved communities.
In a 2020 survey by the National Education Association (NEA), 70% of public schools in the U.S. reported that they were underfunded, with teachers frequently spending their own money on classroom supplies and resources.
A study from The Search Institute found that students who have mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college, 78% more likely to volunteer, and 50% more likely to hold leadership positions later in life.
The U.S. Department of Education has reported that 25% of students with disabilities drop out of high school, which is significantly higher than the national average of 14%.
By investing in mentorship, we can address these gaps and provide a lifeline for students who might otherwise be left behind. Mentors can offer not only academic guidance but also emotional support, helping students build the skills and confidence they need to succeed. With a community-centered approach, we can ensure that every student has the chance to reach their full potential, regardless of the obstacles they face.
Even though we didn’t stay in touch after I graduated, I will forever be grateful for Mr. Ratterman. He was one of the few who saw my potential when I couldn’t see it myself, and his belief in me was a gift I carry with me to this day. Be someone's Ratterman.
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