Leadership Programs

Communities of leaders working together to hone their vision and skills in instruction, culture, and strategy, to benefit all students.

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Lead. Inspire. Empower.

School and system leaders today face challenges - and opportunities - like never before. Relay’s Leadership Programs are practice based, research based and equity-centered, with the goal of supporting leaders to lead transformational schools that serve every student at the highest levels.

We are committed to providing a space for leaders to learn together, inspire and empower each other, and ultimately return to their schools with a clear vision on how to better serve students, families and teachers.

Immediately Applicable

Relay partners with schools, systems, and states to match leadership needs with actionable development and support opportunities. We offer fellowship programs, targeted coaching, and job-embedded support, ranging from a few weeks to multi-year engagements. Through these programs, we support a range of roles, from school-based leadership teams to principal supervisors.

Available Programs

National programs

We find our programming has the biggest impact on student achievement when school leaders come in “nested teams.”  For example, a district or network sends  the school principal’s manager to NPSA, the school principal to NPAF, and the school’s assistant principals to ILPD. We strongly recommend school leadership teams come together as much as possible to Relay programming.  We encourage leaders with prior experience with Relay’s NPAF and NPSA programs to consider ISLI and LLI. 

Regional programs

Programs feature:

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An experienced facilitator: All are highly-effective current or former school or system leaders.

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A practice-based approach: In cohort retreats and shorter “intersession” gatherings, we provide ample time for small group discussion, practice, and synthesis.

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An equity-centered intention: We treat equity not as a separate unit, but as a fundamental component of all leadership practice.

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A diverse and supportive community: Facilitators create a warm and productive adult learning environment for leaders who are attending with their teams and encourage collaboration in colleagues from different regions or contexts.

Have more questions about our programs? Check out the FAQ page.

Our Leaders' Impact

Follow the Leaders Article Series

Insights and inspiration from leaders in the field who are prioritizing student achievement, equity, and wellness.

Charting a Path to Equitable Education for Students with Disabilities report cover page

Focus on Exceptional Learners

The Inclusive Schools Leadership Institute is highlighted by the Center for Learner Equity as one of three leadership development programs helping leaders live out their commitment to inclusive schools.

Making the Exception the Norm Case Study Cover page

Making the Exception the Norm

Relay leaders affirm they are better equipped to lead schools effectively and report increased feelings of self-efficacy.

Meet the Team

The Relay Professional Education Team is a diverse and dynamic group of individuals with a wealth of experience and a shared goal: to make our Professional Education offerings as effective, exciting, and impactful as possible.

Partnering with Relay

Learn more about how to partner, including important application dates and how we support you. This page is relevant to past partners and those who are new to Relay. 

Have Questions?

We love to discuss your team's needs and which program might be a fit, or answer specific questions you may have. Don't hesitate to reach out! (Note: To request seats right away, see each program's page, linked above)