Ralph Schade believes that building relationships by placing the needs of others before your own with allow you to find balance in your life and make a difference. After graduating from the University of Toledo with a degree in elementary education, intensive science grades 1-12 he became a registered mountain guide. Ralph completed the National Outdoor Education Beartooth Expedition course culminating with a climb of White Tail Peak and seven day survival challenge. He worked in as an inner city teacher in grades 5-12, earning Masters of Education in administration from the University of Toledo before becoming Director of Outdoor Education for Toledo Public Schools. Ralph’s love for alternative education leads him to teach for over 20 years in weekend and summer programs at the Toledo Zoo. He continues this passion by currently teaching survival skills along the Au Sable River with youth from the Toledo Zoo program. Ralph became Principal of Walbridge Elementary School (87 percent free and reduced) working with teachers, students and parents to motivate the school, becoming a nationally recognized top ten urban elementary school of improvement. After six years as elementary principal he became Director of Curriculum and Development for Toledo Public Schools. During this time pacing guides were developed, intensive teacher training occurred, and aligned assessments were developed to inform instruction resulting in Toledo Public Schools moving two steps from the lowest state ranking to a continuous improvement ranking. Ralph retired from Toledo Public Schools after 35 years of service and is currently working for Edwards Educational Services, Inc. He is honored to be a part of a team that commits to making a difference!