We need a relay of great teachers to ensure our kids have a great education. You are now a part of that relay. In order to make the most of your Prospective Student experience, we want to support you to start with success. Below you will also see some resources to help you transition into your Relay program, whether you are a recent graduate or career changer, and prepare to be both a graduate student and an educator.

BALANCING YOUR NEW ROLES

Relay students are both full-time teachers (employed in a program-aligned instructional role) and part-time graduate students with commitments and responsibilities to both their employer (our partner school/district) and their educator (Relay). Finding a balance between these two roles can sometimes be challenging, but there are great opportunities to prepare for the school year ahead. 

Check out this sample of a week in the life of a Relay student or read it below.

WHAT TO EXPECT - YOUR SCHOOL

• Whether you are a new-to-the-profession teacher-in-residence or a tenured teacher, teaching can be a heavy load. We’ve seen this more than ever before as we have navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 hasn’t been an easy feat, but more and more teachers recognize the importance of the profession and the benefits of a classroom environment. As an educator, you play a crucial role in creating a genuine community.     

• Once you’re set to begin the school year, it is crucial managing your school schedules to maximize your time and efficiency. Here are some tips on how to do that according to scholastic.com:  

  • Find out which aspects of school time you can control.

  • Schedule solid blocks of teaching time for each day.

  • Plan for smooth transitions between lessons and always try to have materials ready for each lesson or activity.

  • Assign homework to extend practice time.

  • Consider how and when you schedule restroom breaks for maximum efficiency.

  • Improve student attendance.

• Taking time off as a teacher can be a daunting task. Many teachers feel like they’re unable to take time off in fear of failing their school and their students. However, with proper preparation and support from colleagues and administrators, every teacher should be able to meet their needs. Here are “The 4 Things Teachers Must Do Before a Planned Absence” for when teachers need that much-needed time off. 

• Speak to school leaders about in-service opportunities. Whether you’re leading an in-service at your school or just attending one, there are great benefits to attending one for you and your students. Teachers benefit from in-service days through the professional growth they experience from the new information they learned. Students benefit through improved instruction their teachers learned and will probably bring it into their classroom. If you would like to lead an in-service day or brainstorm for one-click this article by edutopia.org. To read more about the benefits of in-service days check out “How Teacher In-Service and Planning Days Benefit Students”.  

WHAT TO EXPECT - RELAY

• Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT): The MAT program at Relay has several options offered across the country. Most Relay MAT programs include prerequisites for earning a teaching credential (alternate route certification/licensure). Click here for a full description of the MAT programs Relay offers. Some programs vary by location. See the locations guide to learn more about which programs are available in your area. 

• Asynchronous coursework: On-demand assignments that you can complete on your own.  These assignments will likely have a suggested timeline and due date and are often related to your synchronous coursework. 

• Synchronous coursework:  Live classes, via video conference, with cameras on - not webinars.  These classes are similar to in-person classes and give students opportunities for discussion, collaboration, practice, and participation in model lessons.  

• Relay Teaching Residency Deliberate Practice: Participate in a supportive preparation program, earn a teaching credential, complete a master’s degree, and have on-the-job experience. Gradually build your skills, beginning first as a full-time teacher-in-residence supporting a lead classroom teacher. You will participate in clinical practice courses, which include an intensive form of focused deliberate practice that has been proven to help experts — from medical doctors to professional athletes — develop complex skills. 

• Continuous support throughout the process: At Relay, your Prospective Student Advising team ensures you are informed, excited, engaged, and prepared during the admissions process. Once enrolled expect to continue to receive the support you need, as well as the resources to help you succeed. Members of the Student Advisement Team or Faculty Advisor will be available to assist you during your program. 

• As you prepare for your program, you can see Relay's term dates here.

• Check out our free professional development pages to learn more about Time Management, Professional Communications, and Self Care.
• Read more about our current student and alumni experiences here. 

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