Lastinger Learning
New Worlds Reading
Florida Tutoring Advantage
Education professionals from around the world gathered at the University of Maine for the 2026 Leadership for Professional Learning (LfPL) Symposium.
Since 2017, the LfPL Symposium has brought together teachers, education leaders, policy makers and researchers to discuss and reflect on pressing issues facing education.
This year, attendees from several countries revisited and reimagined the education community’s moral purpose. From examining current classroom practices to rethinking professional learning systems for educators, the three-day convening was full of important exploration of opportunities to enhance education practices across the globe.
“One of the most meaningful aspects of LfPL is how we push toward new horizons together,” said Phil Poekert, UF Lastinger Center director. “We are able to invite the perspectives of practitioners and researchers and develop scholarly contributions that then inform future work for education.”
This has been an important opportunity for Maine school and district leaders and educators to take advantage of the deep learning and networking opportunities this symposium offers. It allows educators to bring problems of practice to the group for discussion and get ideas from people from all over the world.
Janet Fairman
Professor, University of Maine
Co-Director, Maine Education Policy Research Institute
Attendees kicked off the symposium by connecting with educators at six local schools to witness their teaching and learning in action. The group then connected the insights gathered at the school visits to their discussion topics to help prepare key reflections and outcomes.
The value of attending LfPL extends beyond the discussions that take place at the tables and in the local classrooms. Immense value is also found in the community created and the collective work done to achieve the shared purpose of making a difference in students’ lives.
The most compelling part of this experience is the people. After connecting with other educators from across the globe, I realized I’m not alone in my experiences. Hearing other’s solutions has been really beneficial and I can’t wait to take them back to my classroom.
Chelsea Lowe
Educator, Bangor School Department
As this year’s symposium wrapped up, these education professionals agreed they will return to their classrooms, districts and other organizations with new insights to consider and strategies to implement. To stay up to date about the next LfPL Symposium, join our network.
About the University of Florida Lastinger Center for Learning
The UF Lastinger Center for Learning researches, develops, and scales educational innovations for adults and children that put all learners on trajectories for lifelong success. With a portfolio of professional learning programs in early learning, literacy and mathematics, and as administrator of two state-wide initiatives, New Worlds Reading and the Florida Tutoring Advantage, the Lastinger Center is focused on helping teachers teach and students learn. To learn more about the Lastinger Center, please visit lastinger.ufl.edu.