In a rapidly changing educational landscape, Teachers on Call has successfully navigated the transition from traditional tutoring to a modern, tech-savvy service, ensuring that the company not only survives but thrives in the digital age. Founded in 1984 by Rhona Sallay, the organisation has evolved from a small side venture into a comprehensive tutoring service that caters to thousands of students across Canada, driven by innovative leadership and a commitment to personalised education.
A Legacy of Learning
Rhona Sallay, a high-school teacher, initiated Teachers on Call in Montreal as a part-time tutoring service aimed at providing tailored educational support for students in Grades 7 to 10. Relying on her extensive classroom experience and a network of contacts, Rhona focused on fostering strong relationships between tutors and students, believing that a good match could significantly impact a child’s academic journey. “I would rather not fill an assignment than send the wrong person,” she stated, highlighting her dedication to ensuring successful outcomes for the families she served.
Initially, the business started modestly, helping around 50 families with a team of 25 tutors. Today, it boasts a roster of several hundred instructors and has expanded its reach to include thousands of families, with a significant portion of its services being delivered online. The evolution of Teachers on Call reflects broader shifts in educational needs and technology, as the company now also serves students in remote parts of Northern Ontario and British Columbia.
A New Generation of Leadership
In 2011, Rhona’s daughter, Joanne Sallay, joined Teachers on Call after a successful career at the Royal Bank of Canada. Recognising the need for innovation, Joanne embraced her mother’s foundational principles while also introducing modern business practices. “I always say I went to the ‘Rhona Sallay school of education,’ but she really taught me the ropes,” Joanne remarked, noting the complementary skills they brought to the business.
Under Joanne’s leadership, the company underwent a significant digital transformation, moving from an entirely in-person model to a predominantly online framework. This transition was not only timely but crucial, as it prepared the business for the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many educational institutions to shift to virtual learning.
Adapting to Change
Joanne’s foresight in exploring virtual tutoring began as an experiment in 2018, despite minimal initial demand. She recognised that certified educators were leaving major urban areas for smaller communities, creating a geographical barrier to finding suitable tutors. “I thought [online learning] was the future, but I would have said it was 10 to 15 years away,” she reflected. This early initiative became essential when the pandemic struck in March 2020, leading to an immediate halt in in-home visits.
While many competitors sought to maintain in-person services, Teachers on Call quickly pivoted to virtual tutoring, leveraging the digital platform that had been developed in previous years. Though initial demand for high school tutoring plummeted as exams were cancelled, the company adapted by catering to families seeking structured learning opportunities during school closures. The introduction of the Learning Recovery Action Plan in Ontario further accelerated demand, as school boards sought support for priority students, solidifying Teachers on Call’s role in the educational ecosystem.
A Vision for the Future
Joanne’s strategic focus on younger learners has been pivotal to the company’s ongoing success. By prioritising elementary education, she has helped establish a strong foundation for Teachers on Call, ensuring that struggling students receive the support they need early on. Rhona, who has remained an invaluable advisor throughout this transition, emphasised the importance of trust in leadership succession. “You have to be able to trust the people you are working with and give up that control,” she advised.
This collaborative approach to leadership and innovation has allowed Teachers on Call to honour its founding values while adapting to the evolving needs of students and families.
Why it Matters
The story of Teachers on Call illustrates the power of adaptability and the importance of embracing change in family-run businesses. As education continues to evolve, organisations that can successfully blend traditional values with modern practices will not only survive but flourish. Teachers on Call stands as a testament to the potential for multi-generational businesses to thrive through innovation, ultimately reshaping the educational landscape for future generations.
