Before being paired with kids shortly after fall break, students in K-8 Mentoring class will sharpen their skills in such areas as interaction, listening and communication, according to Robin Pletcher, K-8 Mentoring class instructor.

“We have a book that we’re working out of; it’s the yellow Caring and Sharing book,” Pletcher said. “We look a lot at values and how our values and our self-concepts have impacted the decisions that we make and then they can carry that out into their work with the kids.”

Mentor and senior Nicole Murphy said she has been using the book and attending classes for a few weeks.

“(We’re learning) how to facilitate the kids and how to respond appropriately and listen to all their problems and how we can best help them,” Murphy said. “I’m kind of interested in counseling so it’s something I’m definitely interested in learning more about.”

Murphy said she has high expectations for the coming year. “I’m just hoping to have some good experiences and help some good kids as well as help myself.”