The Relay Report
A Note from Relay's President
Dr. Mayme Hostetter, President
From Turnaround to Transformation: Pueblo’s Path to Lasting Improvement
When Pueblo School District 60 entered Colorado’s EASI program, the challenge was clear: drive lasting change. Rather than opt for quick fixes, Pueblo partnered with Relay to build deep, ongoing professional learning for education leaders.
Five years later, that investment paid off—shifting mindsets, improving student outcomes, and helping the district exit turnaround status. Pueblo’s journey is a powerful reminder that sustainable school improvement starts with investing in people.
L Santillan
Assistant School Leader, Si Se Puede School | Former National Principal Academy Fellowship participant
How Strategic Collaboration and Coaching Improved Outcomes at PS176Q in Queens, NY
At PS 176Q in Queens, Principal Marisa Castello saw that despite existing instructional supports, student outcomes were still falling short. In response, she introduced a more collaborative approach focused on strengthening the alignment and rigor of student work. With guidance from her Relay leadership coach, this shift led to stronger student outcomes and deeper teacher collaboration—showing how focused leadership and shared practice can move the needle on learning.
Alumni Spotlight: Devin Evans
Devin Evans knew he wanted to be a teacher from a young age, when he would grab chalk and teach his teddy bears on his mother’s steps.
Now he is a social studies teacher and department chair in Chicago Public Schools, leading notable student growth alongside his colleagues. He’s also training to become a principal - and he says he still uses the lessons he learned at Relay, every day.
Cultivating Classroom Culture Through Collective Dialogue
As the school year concludes, maintaining a dynamic and purposeful classroom environment is crucial. In his article, Jacob Schiffrin, Professor of Elementary Curriculum Design at Relay, emphasizes the significance of structured, student-led dialogues in fostering a strong classroom culture. Drawing from observations across K-12 classrooms, Schiffrin illustrates how intentional conversations can deepen student engagement, promote critical thinking, and reinforce a sense of community. Implementing these practices in the final weeks can revitalize student interest and ensure a meaningful conclusion to the academic year.
Employee Spotlight: LaResha Jola-Isiba
This month, we’re excited to spotlight LaResha Jola-Isiba, Relay’s Vice President of Strategic Initiatives. LaResha’s journey from aspiring lawyer to education operations leader is a testament to her dedication and adaptability. Since joining Relay in 2019, she’s used her problem-solving mindset and people-first leadership to help teams align resources and talent toward common goals. Learn more about LaResha’s path to Relay.
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