Dr. David Butler and staff mentoring high school students digging test pits for the survey of the Blueberry Site. 

Education: A Mission of KVAHC

by Gordon Davis

Mentoring--from the Greek word meaning enduring--is defined as a sustained relationship between a youth and an adult. Through continued involvement, the adult offers support, guidance, and assistance. The notion of mentoring is ancient. The original Mentor was described by Homer as the "wise and trusted counselor" whom Odysseus left in charge of his household during his travels.

In modern times, the concept of mentoring has found application in virtually every forum of learning. A mentoring relationship develops over an extended period, during which a student's needs and the nature of the relationship tend to change. In the broad sense intended here, a mentor is someone who takes a special interest in helping another person develops into a successful professional.

Since 1995 Walker Memorial Academy has been mentored by professional and avocational archaeologists associated with KVAHC.  Each year, these relationships are forged between adult members and energetic teenagers, through the work of archaeology.  Whether it is sharing the responsibility of digging in the unit, screening for artifacts, site paperwork or bringing dessert to the Christmas dinner, students and adults are forming bonds of friendship. 

The mentoring experience includes monthly lectures hosted by KVAHC that allow the student’s access to the professional archaeologist.  Digs at the Blueberry site give students the opportunity to excavate and discover artifacts that help them understand the lifestyle of the pre-Columbian. 

Informing the community is an integral part of the work of an archaeologist.  Walker Memorial Academy students have accepted the challenge to create and produce the KVAHC newsletter plus design and maintain the KVAHC website.  Mentoring has become a priority for KVAHC.  The experience has provided many students and adults the privilege of forming close personal relationships within the context of learning and exploring archaeology.