Randi Blair

Randi Blair is Program Director of Learning by Scientific Design at DFI. In her role, she leads a national network of educator-preparation programs and school partners, guiding faculty, clinical educators, and mentor teachers to embed learning science into coursework, practice, and coaching so that aspiring teachers are equipped to help all students thrive.

Prior to joining DFI, Randi served as a Teacher Development Specialist for secondary science at Houston ISD, where she coached and supported educators to strengthen their instructional practice and student outcomes. In this role, she partnered with schools to design and facilitate science-focused professional learning, provided one-on-one coaching for teachers, and led initiatives to embed evidence-based teaching practices across classrooms.

Randi currently lives in Houston, Texas with her family.

Describe a teacher or student who made a lasting impact in your life.

Brandon was my student in both seventh and eighth grade. Brandon was the kind of student who desired to achieve in everything he tried. When we held our parent-teacher conference during Brandon's eighth-grade year, I asked the translator to inform Brandon's mother that I believed her son would soon become valedictorian of his graduating class. She grinned. Brandon shook his head in confusion, asking, "What is that?" Brandon contacted me four years later and said, "Mrs. Blair, I'm the valedictorian of CE King High School." He later explained that although he had no concept of what a valedictorian was, he was driven by my faith in him. I'm grateful for that phone call. Brandon's story forever changed my perspective on the power of speaking life into students.

What were you like as a student?

As a student, I was deeply determined and resilient. I grew up navigating challenges that taught me to be resourceful, focused, and committed to finishing what I started. While I sometimes wrestled with fear and insecurity, I consistently pushed myself to rise above those doubts by working hard and staying curious. I was the kind of student who not only wanted to succeed for myself but also wanted to set an example for others, showing that with perseverance and faith, you can carve out opportunities and thrive.

What’s the best thing about working at DFI?

I appreciate how our common goal of transforming the educational system is protected and lived out in our daily tasks. I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals with diverse lived experiences but a common belief that every child should have access to qualified teachers.