This advisory for superintendents on the California Mentor Teacher Program provides background information, discusses issues in initial program planning, describes the state department of education's role and upcoming activities in program implementation, and gives information on funding for the program. The background section describes the purpose and legal basis of the program and gives an overview of how it will operate. Issues in initial program planning include: beginning immediately, working with appropriate groups, considering needs and roles mentors should fill, defining roles of selection committees, defining criteria for mentor nomination and selection, defining the process for assessment of candidate qualifications, determining mentor responsibilities, providing training for mentors, securing commitments from site administrators and teachers, setting reasonable expectations, and providing a forum for mentors to assist one another. The funding section discusses the stipends that will be given to mentors, funding for the second half of 1983-84, apportionment of funds to participating districts, allocation of funds for district administration of the program, availability of funds for 1984-85, and limitations on future participation of districts that do not participate during the initial year. A form to be returned by districts that intend to participate in the program is included. (DC)