Learning Forward is working with states, districts, and schools to develop strong, instructionally focused mentoring initiatives that result in better teaching and learning for everyone involved. Through the customized Mentor Academy, they help systems shift away from traditional "buddy" type mentoring to a program designed to foster instructional growth from the first weeks of school. With teacher growth as the expectation from Day One, everything improves, from training and support for mentors to the learning culture of the school to the outcomes for new teachers and their students. With a strong mentoring program, a teacher shortage doesn't have to mean that teaching effectiveness and student outcomes will drop. It establishes the foundation for new teachers to progress rapidly, improving student outcomes and their own practice at the same time.