The Relay Report December 2025

A note from Relay’s President/CEO

As we approach the close of the year, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary work educators and school leaders do every day—and on the collective commitment it takes to support students well. This season offers an important moment to both finish strong and create space to pause, reflect, and reset for what’s ahead.

At Relay, we believe that thriving schools are built on a foundation of well-prepared teachers and intentional leadership. Whether you are just beginning your journey into the classroom or are a seasoned leader looking to deepen your impact, we are honored to walk alongside you.

Our commitment to this mission is reflected in the breadth of our upcoming opportunities:

Launching Careers: For those ready to step into the classroom for the first time, applications for our Teacher Prep programs are currently live. We are looking for the next generation of educators to join our community and begin their journey toward meaningful, long-term impact. (Note: The Spring application deadline is February 16th).

Deepening Leadership: For current practitioners, we are excited to partner with you through our upcoming Leverage Leadership workshops and our Classroom Culture 2: Implementing Positive Behavior Strategies workshop. These experiences are designed to help leaders and teachers strengthen instructional practice, build predictable school cultures, and return to their communities with practical tools they can apply immediately.

Thank you for all you do to serve students and families. I hope you’ll join us as we step into the new year with renewed focus, shared purpose, and a continued belief in what’s possible when educators at every level come together around a common mission.

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With gratitude,

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Dr. Sarah Johnson, President and CEO

Turning the Tide in Math: How one Colorado elementary school leveraged leadership, curriculum and coaching to drive growth

A school once on the brink of closure, Minnequa Elementary School in Pueblo, Colorado made a purposeful investment in high-quality math instruction, robust teacher coaching and data-driven instructional shifts catalyzed a major turnaround. Over four years, proficiency more than tripled, and the school earned a state “Bright Spot” award for exceptional growth.

As districts consider how to scale impact, Minnequa’s experience invites reflection on the power of aligned curriculum, intentional leadership, and structures that support high-leverage instructional change.

See How they Did it

Turning the Tide in Math: How one Colorado elementary school leveraged leadership, curriculum and coaching to drive growth

"All schools would benefit from what we learn at Relay about data meetings and planning structures and protocols. I found it really helpful to make "playbooks" to guide my planning."

Principal Supervisor, University Prep Schools, Michigan

The Power of a New Year Culture Reset in K–12 Schools

January offers schools a rare gift: a natural moment to pause, reflect, and realign around the routines, relationships, and expectations that help students thrive. A strong culture reset isn’t about starting over—it’s about sharpening what works, strengthening belonging, and building momentum for the rest of the year. With clearly defined routines and intentional relationship-building, schools can reclaim instructional time, increase student engagement, and finish the year strong.

Want a practical framework for making your reset stick? Our Teacher Professional Education Classroom Culture workshop equips educators with concrete tools to re-teach expectations, reinforce positive behaviors, and create predictable, student-centered classrooms.

Learn More

Alumni Spotlight: Caitlin Rodriguez

Caitlin Rodriguez found her voice in seventh grade, a pivotal year that set her on her teaching journey. Although she initially planned to become a social worker, an AmeriCorps stint led her to the classroom. Caitlin’s master's program at Relay was a transformative experience, where she gained invaluable hands-on experience, implementing what she learned in class directly into her classroom. She believes this practical approach shaped her teaching philosophy and helped her become her "own little champion." Now an English teacher, she hopes to one day become a principal.

Meet Caitlin

Beyond the Back-to-School Survey: Culturally Responsive Teaching All Year Long

Culturally responsive teaching shouldn’t stop after the first week of school. By building practices that honor students’ identity and strengths all year long, school leaders can create a trusted space for deeper, more authentic engagement in the classroom.

Take a look at some of the strategies and real life examples from Relay partners who make culturally responsive teaching a daily practice.

See how they do it

Beyond the Back-to-School Survey: Culturally Responsive Teaching All Year Long

Employee Spotlight: Trevor Crandall

Meet Trevor Crandall, Relay’s Director of LMS Operations. From building his first computer after football practice to blending tech and creativity for his work today, Trevor brings curiosity, empathy, and problem solving to every challenge. With 11 years at Relay, he shares how serving others-and his cat Kasha-inspires him to be the “shining little sparkle” in someone's day.