November 19, 2020
KELI earns Gold Accreditation from International Mentoring Association
A College of Education mentoring program for the newest school leaders across the state has — once again — earned the highest accreditation rating possible by the International Mentoring Association.
The Kansas Educational Leadership Institute, or KELI, earned the International Mentoring Association's gold accreditation level — granted to quality mentor programs that are adequately supported and managed.
KELI was established in 2011-12 and is housed at the K-State College of Education. Partners include the Kansas State Department of Education, United School Administrators — Kansas, Kansas Association of School Boards and the Kansas School Superintendents' Association.
Donna Augustine-Shaw, associate professor of educational leadership, recently received a letter from Brenda L.H. Marina, the association's president, notifying her of KELI's designation based on the application that was submitted.
"Your objectives are thoroughly implemented, and the program design is well aligned with the International Mentor Program Standards as indicated in the written application," Marina wrote. "Furthermore, evidence suggests a clear process for monitoring mentoring relationships and evaluating mentee growth in the KELI Program."
Augustine-Shaw believes the accreditation level validates its founding vision and growth.
"KELI is excited to receive a second gold accreditation from the International Mentoring Association," she said. "The standard for achieving this recognition is rigorous and acknowledges the quality of the program conceptualized by the original planners."
KELI's mission is divided into two tracts: the induction and mentoring of new superintendents and principals; and ongoing professional learning opportunities for district and school leaders and leadership teams supported by KELI and its partner organizations.
"We've made a concerted effort to make KELI the go-to mentoring program for new school and district leaders in Kansas," Augustine-Shaw said. "Our participation numbers continue to grow each year as new principals, superintendents and special education directors receive quality support from mentors around the state."
Quality mentors are a hallmark of the KELI program.
"KELI's coaching training for mentors remains a unique part of the program along with a strong emphasis on networking and building capacity in each new leader," Augustine-Shaw said. "Our mentors are remarkable and remain the heart of our program."