Each month, The Relay® Report brings you powerful stories, research, upcoming events, and updates from across our network. Subscribe to get it directly in your inbox:
A note from Relay’s President
As I reflect on nearly two decades with Relay, I am filled with gratitude and pride. From the early days of building a vision with a small cohort to becoming a national leader in teacher and leadership preparation, Relay’s journey has been one of growth and unwavering commitment to educational equity.
This newsletter encapsulates the essence of our work: celebrating the transformative power of education and the impact of dedicated leaders.
In Colonial School District, we see how nurturing talent from within can strengthen school communities. Dr. Tenia Pritchard’s initiative in District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) invites us to reflect on how consistent, collaborative leadership can drive meaningful change. JenaLynn Settles’s journey reminds us of the profound purpose that teaching can ignite. Quinn Champagne’s reflection highlights the significance of intentional engagement and practice that helps shape confident educators. Victoria Quan Mack’s story underscores the importance of data in making informed decisions that benefits students and is easily digestible for a number of audiences. We also invite you to join us on Saturday, June 28th for our 2025 National Commencement Ceremony.
As I transition to my new role at Hamline University in my hometown, I carry the lessons and relationships I gained at Relay. Our enduring mission is to ensure all students are taught by outstanding educators. I am looking forward to continuing this work in a new way, always with a belief that great teachers can change the world.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. I am excited for what a promising future holds for all of us.
Dr. Mayme Hostetter, President
From Walkthroughs to Wins: Building a Culture of Feedback
As Instructional Superintendent for District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), Dr. Tenia Pritchard saw an opportunity: stronger, more consistent feedback could unlock deeper teaching and learning. Drawing on her experience with Relay, she launched monthly focus walks, bringing school leaders together to observe instruction and model effective coaching.
With accelerating student growth and a shared culture of feedback across 13 schools, Dr. Pritchard’s work is a powerful reflection of how meaningful collaboration and clear instructional focus can drive lasting change.
“This program provided me with a community of like-minded individuals who help me feel seen and supported–a community of thought partners who are always willing to share resources and wisdom. I couldn't have asked for a better experience to reinvigorate my passion for teaching and history”
Joseph Davis
UA School for Applied Math and Science, Bronx NY
From Within: Building a Teacher Pipeline Rooted in Community
In Colonial School District, a bold idea took root: what if the best future teachers were already part of the school community? Through a partnership with Relay, CSD launched a teacher residency program that supports paraprofessionals and career changers as they transition into the classroom—without sacrificing financial stability or support.
Now, with growing retention and stronger school communities, Colonial’s story offers a powerful reflection on what’s possible and a celebration of what can grow from within.
Relay Alumni: JenaLynn Settles
Relay didn't just prepare JenaLynn Settles for a teaching career; it shaped her life's calling.
This alumna's journey, from a San Antonio classroom to supporting military families and beyond, showcases how Relay's unique approach cultivates not just educators, but compassionate leaders. Her story is a powerful testament to finding purpose.
Ending the Year with Confidence and Voice: 3 Ingredients to Foster Both
Quinn Champagne, a 6th-grade MLL Specialist and Relay graduate student, reflects on how his preparation at Relay helped him grow into a confident, intentional educator. By being treated as a professional and equipped with practical tools, Champagne not only found his own voice, but created a thoughtfully curated space for his students to find theirs. His story is a testament to the kind of growth that deepens when every moment of connection and learning counts.
