Relay Graduate School of Education

Relay Graduate School of Education is a national, nonprofit graduate school focused on preparing and supporting teachers and school leaders. Its mission is to ensure that all students are taught by outstanding educators, and its vision is a more just world in which every student can access outstanding educators and a clear path to a fulfilling life. Relay was founded by practitioners seeking a model of teacher preparation grounded in classroom experience and collaboration with public schools.

Relay offers graduate and degree programs for aspiring and current educators, including a Master of Arts in Teaching, alternative teacher certification, and an Advanced Certificate in Special Education. Depending on the program and location, aspiring teachers may pursue a residency with an apprentice year and certification options; current teachers can earn a master’s degree with or without special education certification. Relay also works with school districts on “Grow Your Own” initiatives, such as paraeducator-to-teacher and tutor-to-teacher pathways, and programs that recruit local career changers.

Beyond degree and certification pathways, Relay provides professional education for practicing teachers, fellowships and development for school-level instructional leaders, and support for experienced school and system leaders. Its programs serve educators at different career stages, while partnerships with school districts and other education organizations extend this work to schools and communities. Relay describes its offerings as a continuum of educator preparation, professional learning, and leadership support.

The institution’s approach combines pedagogical theory, research, and evidence from schools with practical application. Programs emphasize focused practice, observation, feedback, and opportunities to refine teaching and leadership skills. Relay says its faculty include experienced PK–12 teachers and leaders who coach and support participants. Flexible online coursework is also part of its model, intended to accommodate educators’ schedules.

Relay was chartered by the New York State Board of Regents in 2011 and describes itself as the first stand-alone graduate school of education in New York in more than 80 years. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. The school is authorized to operate and/or grant graduate degrees across multiple U.S. jurisdictions, and it reports collaborating with public school districts, charter networks, education nonprofits, and peer higher-education institutions.

Relay’s stated focus is improving opportunities and outcomes for children by developing effective educators. Its program design treats student learning and development as central to teaching and leadership, including academic growth and social-emotional wellness. The organization also describes a commitment to continuous improvement through examination of program and student outcomes and feedback from participants and employers.

Relay’s official site announces that Relay and Teaching Lab are combining forces to strengthen support for educators nationwide. The organizations describe the intended partnership as a more coherent system of support across the educator journey, from early-career teaching through experienced instructional and system leadership. Relay’s headquarters are at 25 Broadway in New York City.