Illinois

The Relay Chicago Approach

Relay Chicago started with just 61 graduate students in 2015-16, and has grown to over 300 in the 2021-22 school year. In its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, nearly 60% of all Relay Chicago students self-identify as BIPOC (i.e. Black, Indigenous, or Person of Color) in the current school year. Additionally, over 80% of Relay Chicago students are focusing on high needs subject areas, including math and science.

Faculty

Relay has nearly 140 experienced, supportive faculty across our campuses. Here is one example of a faculty member who teaches and advises our Illinois students:

Mathew Mauricio Rojas serves as the Director of Clinical Practice for Illinois at Relay Graduate School of Education. A product of New York City public schools, Mathew’s work has been deeply informed by the inequities and challenges that exist for students of color as they navigate the intersection between personal identity, educational experiences, connection to community and personal aspirations. He is particularly interested in helping first year teachers navigate those waters and create just and equitable classrooms. Prof. Rojas has taught K-12 bilingual education, 5th, and 8th grade, as well as coached teachers before joining Relay. He is a graduate of Middlebury College, holds a Masters in Educational Policy and Leadership from American University, and is working on a Masters of Public Policy at University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy. Prof. Rojas lives in Chicago, IL with his husband and dogs, and enjoys cooking, running, and exploring Chicago’s food scene.