Meet UTEACH Student, Ralph Relador

CED student, Ralph Relador, chose the SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union UTEACH (Urban Teaching Academy) program because of its cohort model and year-long residency program. But he chose the College of Education to earn his teaching credential because of the College’s emphasis on science education and strong partnership with Long Beach Unified School District.

Indeed, to Ralph, the SchoolsFirst FCU UTEACH experience of placing credential students in a local school site for a full academic year was invaluable and provided him with important hands-on experience. The SchoolsFirst FCU UTEACH pathway is a unique opportunity for students to combine pedagogy and practice in a personalized credential program designed to fully prepare future teachers in a hands-on supportive school setting. “One of the best aspects of the SchoolsFirst FCU UTEACH program is the dynamic between your assigned supervisor and master teacher. Both your supervisor and master teacher work closely to ensure you are able to grow professionally and academically during student teaching.”

Becoming an elementary school teacher is Ralph’s goal. “I was fortunate enough to have great teachers around me when I was a student, a lot of them have greatly influenced my decision. I have also learned that there is nothing more rewarding than getting to work with students on a daily basis.”