Relay’s mission is to empower teachers and school leaders to develop in all students the academic skills and strength of character needed to succeed in college and life. Our vision is to become the place where a new generation of continuously-improving, mission-driven individuals can fulfill their destiny in the world’s greatest profession.
With over 5,000 active Relay residents, teachers and school leaders, and nearly 15,000 alumni, Relay impacts an estimated 1.9 million PK-12 students across district and charter schools nationwide. By providing access to high-quality teachers, curriculum and learning experiences, Relay ensures more children benefit from top-tier education. Relay is proud to have over 14,000 alumni from its teacher preparation programs and more than 11,000 from its leadership programs.
In Relay Connecticut, I have found a learning space that is both challenging and encouraging, both rigorous and inspiring. I feel well equipped to create the same environment in my classroom.
Relay Connecticut's certification program is available for non-certified staff members employed with partner schools. Relay offers certification in secondary math (grades 4-12), secondary sciences (grades 4-12), secondary English Language Arts (grades 4-12), and elementary education (grades K-6). You will be eligible for a Connecticut Initial Educator Certificate once you successfully complete the program.
The program is designed to accommodate the demanding schedules of full-time, non-certified staff members. You can complete the coursework online at your own convenience and skill level. Weekly online classes focus on deepening your understanding through deliberate practice with a group of passionate, dedicated peers. You will be assigned a school-based mentor teacher who will guide you during your first year of residency. You can pursue teacher certification in one of the following subject areas. Your certification must correspond with the subject area of the degree program you choose.
Degree programs:
MAT in English Language Arts education
MAT in mathematics education
MAT in science education
MAT in elementary education*
*If you're a Connecticut elementary teacher candidate entering the program as a teaching resident in 2025-2026, you'll enroll in a Colorado-based educator preparation program. Once you complete all the Colorado educator prep program requirements, Relay will verify your completion of the Colorado Traditional Teacher Licensure program. Thanks to an interstate agreement between Connecticut and Colorado, you can then use this certification to apply for teaching licensure in Connecticut.
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Application Fee & Annual Tuition
$14,450
In State Tuition
$0
Application Fee
Ways to Lower Your Costs
Students at Relay Connecticut have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with Relay Connecticut to see if you can, too!
Amount
Description
$3,000- $8,000 or more
Grants, Stipends, Scholarships
The tuition at Relay is approximately $14,450 per year. While this is the published price, Relay is committed to ensuring that programs are affordable for teachers, especially those teaching in high-needs schools. After available public funding or institutional and need-based aid from Relay and/or AmeriCorps, the cost of the Relay Connecticut program can drop by half for eligible students. Relay also offers payment plans.
Relay offers academic plans tailored to each certification area. If you're starting in Summer 2025, these plans will guide you through recommended course sequences.
The plans differ based on your chosen state and academic pathway, and they list all the courses you'll need to complete the program. For more details, you can view the plans at this link.
Program Hallmarks
Relay Connecticut provides a Residency program where all Residents have a full time job in a partner K-12 School. This Residency module provides a gradual on-ramp to the into the teaching profession as Residents work throughout the entirety of the school year with their students and mentor teachers.
Relay Connecticut prioritzes working with uncertified staff from our Urban Districts. Relay Connecticut also prioritices enrolling students who have been historircally underrepresented in the Connecticut teaching work force. In addition, Relay Connecticut offers a robust curriculm infused with culturally responsive pedagogy.
All Relay Residents are provided an onsite Resident advisor to lesson plan, model and co-teach with Residents, lesson plan with Residents, All Relay Residents are also provided with a Faculty Advisor who provides observations, coaching and mentoring.
All Relay Residents work to continuously increase their effectiveness as students. Embedded in the program are feedback loops that ensure that students continuously reflect and improve on their practice.
Stats
Gender
Male
Female
22%
78%
Ethnicity
American Indian or Alaskan Native
Asian
Black
Hispanic/Latino
Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander
White
Two or more races
0%
4%
41%
14%
0%
33%
8%
Get Started
Dig deeper. Visit Relay Connecticut's website to learn more and apply.
