Lastinger Learning
New Worlds Reading
Florida Tutoring Advantage
Research, Develop & Scale
Our Work
The UF Lastinger Center for Learning strengthens education by building strategic partnerships, advocating for change, and fostering community engagement. We are committed collaborators who believe in the power of relationships to drive progress.
These efforts have led to impactful professional learning programs in early childhood, literacy and mathematics for educators serving children from birth through 12th grade. With two decades of trusted leadership, we also administer two major statewide initiatives – New Worlds Reading and Florida Tutoring Advantage – demonstrating our commitment to supporting learners and educators across Florida.
Professional Learning
Lastinger Learning
Lastinger Learning is the UF Lastinger Center’s suite of research-based professional learning programs designed for educators of children from birth through 12th grade in early childhood, literacy and mathematics.
Through effective, research-based professional learning and instructional experiences, educators are equipped with the knowledge and skills to put all learners on trajectories for lifelong success.
Lastinger Learning focuses on improving a child’s capacity to achieve three critical milestones predictive of success later in life: kindergarten readiness, third grade reading proficiency, ninth grade algebra proficiency.
Kindergarten Readiness
Third Grade Reading Proficiency
Ninth Grade Algebra Proficiency
[The Early Learning Online Course] reminded me why I chose this profession in the first place: because helping children grow and thrive is meaningful and powerful work.
Lastinger Learning Participant
State Initiatives
New Worlds Reading
New Worlds Reading is Florida’s free at-home literacy program designed to help eligible VPK through 5th grade students in Florida bolster literacy skills and build reading confidence. The initiative was signed into law in June 2021 with the Lastinger Center designated as the state-appointed administrator.
Each month during the school year, eligible children receive a free book tailored to their interests along with resources and activities developed by the Lastinger Center for caregivers and children to use together. Books and materials are available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and braille.
The program aims to foster a lifelong love of reading through a combination of free book delivery, reading resources and professional learning for teachers.
Book Delivery
Reading Resources
Professional Learning
My son gets so excited every month to get his books. He’s expanded on what he likes to read by trying new books he would have never given a chance before.
Steph S.
New Worlds Reading Parent
Florida Tutoring Advantage
Florida Tutoring Advantage is a statewide initiative aimed at transforming student outcomes in reading and mathematics by delivering in-person, virtual and automated tutoring services. The initiative also supplies professional learning opportunities for tutors and facilitates partnerships between school districts and tutoring vendors.
The Florida Legislature unanimously passed the bill creating Florida Tutoring Advantage in spring 2024 and named the Lastinger Center as its administrator.
Through this initiative, the Lastinger Center supports school districts in the development and operation of high-impact tutoring programs for K-5 public school students across the state.
Reading & Math Tutoring
Professional Learning for Tutors
District & Tutor Partnerships
This work not only sets a standard for statewide programs but also creates a blueprint for how states can lead with evidence and into impact.
Florida Tutoring Advantage Partner
Listening Tours
Since its establishment in 2002, the Lastinger Center has been committed to listening to children, families, educators, and school and community leaders to develop an ongoing understanding of the needs of the stakeholders we serve through the products and services we design.
A series of statewide Listening Tours punctuate the Center’s history, providing insights into improving learning outcomes for children, enhancing educator knowledge and skills and supporting educators as they serve our children.
