Scope and Sequence

The scope and sequence of the program is designed to ensure that students develop specialized skills and knowledge in a logical and meaningful way. For this reason, most coursework is taught in weekly sessions by a Relay faculty member. Weekly sessions build on prior knowledge and establish the foundation for increasing rigor and complexity across the year. Additional sessions may be taught on Saturdays by full-time and/or adjunct instructors.  

Intervention Intensive

Effective teachers of exceptional learners have the ability to assess and address an individual student with precision and intentionality. To provide sufficient practice in this skill, students will provide one-on-one intervention to a student for the entirety of the program. Teachers’ work with their PK–12 students will directly relate to courses in the scope and sequence. Faculty will observe teachers during their one-on-one interventions in order to provide formative feedback and evaluate progress.

Classroom Observations

To see firsthand how students are progressing as teachers, faculty members will observe students’ classrooms several times over the course of the program. Faculty members’ expectations for these observations will become more complex as the students progress through their time at Relay. Observations may be used for course assessment and/or to meet requirements for certification/licensure. 

Special Education Capstone

As a final assessment, all students will reflect on the one-on-one work they have done during the intervention intensive and advocate for a specific revision to their student’s educational program. This written analysis and reflection, combined with a presentation to both peers and faculty, is an opportunity to synthesize the learning the student has done across the year.