Ally Kolek Completes Relay Teacher Credentialing Program

SESI’s partnership with the Relay Graduate School of Education gives eligible educators an opportunity to earn a master’s degree and teaching credentials while continuing to work with students. Through the 1.5-year Relay Teacher Credentialing Program, participants can build their skills, receive mentorship from SESI leaders, and take the next step in their careers without stepping away from the classroom.

SESI is highlighting Ally Kolek, program coordinator at High Road School of Hoffman Estates. Kolek recently earned her master’s degree through Relay, with concentrations in LBS2, Trauma in Education, and Educational Leadership.

About the Relay Teacher Credentialing Program

• Earn While Teaching: Complete a 1.5-year credential or degree program while actively teaching.
• Provisional Licensure: Step into teaching roles right away with provisional credentials.
• Mentorship & Leadership: Benefit from dedicated coaching and mentorship from experienced SESI leaders.
• Program Prerequisites: Requires a bachelor’s degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Long-Term Impact: Participants commit to remaining with SESI for at least two years post-completion, driving lasting change for students with unique needs.

Finding Purpose Through Working With Students

Working directly with students as an assistant teacher helped Kolek see where she wanted her career to go.

“I was initially inspired while serving as an assistant teacher, where working directly with students to support their growth ignited my professional purpose,” Kolek said. “As I experienced the daily impact of specialized instruction, I recognized that furthering my education would allow me to better serve students across academic, functional, and behavioral domains.”

Expanding Her Impact as an Educator

As her role evolved, so did the ways Kolek hoped to support students and colleagues.

“Achieving this degree expanded my vision for systemic impact, equipping me with advanced tools to mentor colleagues and advocate for diverse student needs,” she said.

Mentorship and Professional Growth

Kolek also credits her mentor with helping her build confidence and strengthen her approach to working with students, families, and school partners.

“I was guided by my mentor, Justine Cutro, who provided the foundational support I needed to build confidence as an educator,” Kolek said. “Justine showed me how to foster strong relationships with families and school partners, modeling what it looks like to lead a collaborative, student-centered classroom where every learner’s unique strengths are celebrated.”

Advice for Educators Considering Relay

For educators considering Relay, Kolek pointed to the opportunity to apply what they learn to challenges they encounter in their own classrooms.

“Participating in Relay is a transformative opportunity,” she said. “It offers meaningful collaboration with peers to solve real-world classroom challenges and equips you with practical tools to cultivate supportive learning environments. Most importantly, it empowers educators to champion diversity and inclusion across every level of education.”

Learn More About the Program

SESI educators interested in learning more about advancing their education through the Relay Teacher Credentialing Program can contact their school director for additional information.