The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of the 2006 New Jersey Department of Education's initiative to improve mentoring supports for first-year new teachers throughout the state. As part of this initiative, every school district in the state was required to develop a comprehensive mentoring plan to support new teachers. Districts were provided with a toolkit to guide plans for quality mentoring and induction. The toolkit guided public school district to consider the goals and vision of their mentoring programs, plan for the professional development of mentors, outline a selection process for mentors, and reflect on the logistical considerations for implementing their mentoring plans. Districts were directed to align their mentoring plans with the New Jersey Professional Standards for teachers to improve instructional practice and performance. (Abstract shortened by ProQuest.). [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]