Strong schools begin with strong teachers. In the video above, you’ll hear from first-year teacher Rachel Novotny ’25 and mentor Patty Hill ’94 about how a new program supported learning in the classroom. Superintendent of Carroll County Public Schools Cynthia McCabe, Ed.D., ‘94 and Nancy Grasmick '61, presidential scholar at TU, who lead this initiative, discuss the value and impact of having mentors provide support and guidance throughout the year.

What is the CCPS Teacher Induction Program?

Recognizing the importance of supporting educators early in their careers, Towson University’s inaugural President Scholar Nancy Grasmick ’61 and Carroll County Public Schools have partnered to provide comprehensive mentoring and professional learning opportunities for new teachers.

The initiative connects novice educators with experienced classroom practitioners who offer coaching, encouragement and practical guidance throughout the school year. The result is a support system that helps first-year teachers build confidence, refine their practice and navigate the realities of the profession.

The program also addresses a broader challenge facing education today: retaining talented teachers. By creating pathways for meaningful mentorship and professional growth, the partnership is helping educators feel supported, successful and inspired to remain in the classroom, where they can make a lasting difference for students.

Finding success in the first year of mentorship, McCabe and Grasmick are looking to expand the program to support new teachers longer and adding more mentors to the list.