Transformation is our Trajectory
we are forging new practical pathways
Recognizing that educational journeys are unique, we support multiple learning trajectories to meet the needs of our state and beyond. With approaches that include practical training and academic rigor grounded in thoroughly vetted research, we enable all learners to achieve their full potential.
Empowering Early Readers
The New Worlds Reading Initiative continues to create vibrant reading environments in homes across the state, changing the lives of Florida’s young readers. The program has provided 7 million books to 359,000 VPK-5 students since 202. By offering an eclectic selection of books in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and braille, along with interactive reading guides, we are using research-backed tools to nurture literacy skills. The Lastinger Center for Learning administers this unique home literacy program in partnership with Scholastic and the Florida Department of Education
Flexible Learning Pathways
This year, UF graduated the first class of teacher apprentices in Florida. The apprenticeship pathway bridges the gap for experienced paraprofessionals and educators with temporary certifications by offering an “earn and learn” model. Initially piloted in Alachua County, Marion County, and P.K. Yonge school districts, the program is now expanding statewide, creating a qualified teaching force to strengthen the future of education.
Cutting-Edge Impact
United States veterans are leveraging their skills for a new mission: hardware security. Wanli Xing, Ph.D., recognized a critical need for professionals with veterans’ unique skills – technical aptitude, meticulousness, and resilience under pressure. The result is Pivots: VETS-HASTE, a three-year, $1 million program funded by the National Science Foundation undertaken in collaboration with the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. This grant equips veterans with in-demand hardware security skills needed to protect our modern semiconductor devices. The program also offers mentorship and career development to address challenges they may face transitioning to the civilian workforce.
Flexible Learning Pathways
Led by Justin Ortagus, Ph.D., researchers with Project REACT are aiming to get students close to finishing their associate degrees back on track. REACT builds on past research to help “near completers” – students who left school close to graduation. Researchers will evaluate the program’s effectiveness for up to 3,700 students across four Florida community colleges. To encourage re-enrollment and support service use, the program offers tuition waivers for up to five courses, in addition to personalized advising and degree mapping services. This research is supported by the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), with tuition paid by the Helios Education Foundation.