The Lastinger Difference:
Practical, Effective, Researched-Based Initiatives
By marshaling the expertise of the University of Florida we develop practical, proven, effective, and research-based approaches to improve student learning. Lastinger Center initiatives are deeply embedded in the context of schools and communities. We work hand-in-hand with teachers, administrators, and community leaders to create initiatives that are interconnected and interdependent and that focus on developing the individuals and institutions that most affect children’s learning and growth.
The Lastinger Center in Action
At the heart of the Lastinger Center’s work is a commitment to support the professional development of teachers in high poverty schools. To this end, we have created an innovative, research-based, practice-centered professional development model that is embedded in schools and provides teachers with an array of training and support to improve practice and student learning. Additionally, in partnership with the College of Education’s School of Teaching and Learning, we offer an innovative, job-embedded Master's Degree program focused on developing Master Teachers. The program is delivered onsite and free of charge to teachers in our partner schools throughout Florida.
The Lastinger Center is committed to transforming schools and school culture. We are a leader in the Ready Schools movement that mobilizes and focuses resources and expertise within, across and outside the school system to produce sustainable and widespread improvement in student learning and healthy child development.
A core element of the Lastinger Center’s work is our partnership with entire school systems. In collaboration with senior level administrators, we work to advance leadership and implement a leadership development system that supports the professional advancement of emerging, experienced, and executive leaders. Toward this end, the Lastinger Center offers a job-embedded Doctoral Degree program.
Beyond our work with teachers, schools, and school systems, the Lastinger Center has an applied research and community mobilization practice. This practice includes field research, strategic planning, and community engagement to assist philanthropic, governmental, social sector, and educational partners in developing and implementing initiatives that are focused on substantially improving child well-being and learning.
