At Relay Graduate School of Education (Relay), we believe that becoming a great teacher or school leader is much like becoming a great musician or doctor. It takes continuous practice, feedback, and dedication. We give Relay students unparalleled opportunities not only to learn the techniques that will make them more effective but also to practice them with faculty and peers. The feedback they receive helps them refine their practice until they’re ready to lead with confidence in the classroom. Students emerge with the skills needed to embark on a career as an outstanding educator prepared to inspire thousands of children.
Our approach to preparing teachers and school leaders is unique in the world of higher education. It begins with a curriculum rooted in pedagogical theory and grounded in evidence of what works best in schools. Our programs emphasize the specific teaching and instructional-leadership skills and mindsets that have the greatest impact on student learning and character development. In order to achieve our mission of improving opportunities and outcomes for children, Relay’s approach focuses on the proven practices that enable teachers and leaders to become highly effective educators.
We also encourage teachers and school leaders to adopt a strong focus on personal character strengths and social-emotional learning skills that will help their students grow up to be happy, responsible citizens who show grit, respect, integrity, and love for themselves and others. Our programs are designed to help students support and reflect upon both academic and social-emotional measures of student growth. Relay also works to infuse equity-centered and inclusive learning practices into our curriculum to support students’ ability to teach across lines of difference.
To develop and lead our programs, Relay has turned to the teachers and school leaders who've supported thousands of students as they achieved exceptional academic and character growth. These passionate educators are driven by a desire to transform the lives of children. They share a deep commitment to bringing out the best in their fellow teachers and principals. They are never far from PK–12 schools, and they are our Relay faculty members.