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Anchin Center Speaker Series Explores Collaborative Efforts in Education

group shot at speaker series

On Monday, March 25, 2024, the David C. Anchin Center for the Advancement of Teaching hosted a thought-provoking research talk as part of its ongoing Anchin Center Speaker Series. The event, titled "Bridging Research and Practice through Research-Practice Partnerships," shared information about wrap-around services provided to students and families at community schools and the generative power of research-practice partnerships.

Dr. Jose Castillo, Dr. Stacy-Ann January, and Dr. Kahlila Lawrence, representing the USF Institute for School Community Partnerships, along with Meagan Smithyman, Executive Director of Community Schools and Family Outreach at Tampa YMCA, and Kimberly Thompson, Supervisor for Community Schools at Hillsborough County Public Schools, led the engaging discussion.

facilitators at speaker series

Kimberly Thompson, Dr. Kahlila Lawrence, Dr. Stacy-Ann January, Meagan Smithyman, and Dr. Jose Castillo.

Attendees comprised a diverse audience, including USF faculty members, community partners, principals from Hillsborough County Public Schools, USF students, and practicing teachers. The talk, lasting just over an hour, centered on the vital role of wraparound services at community schools. These services aim to provide comprehensive support to students and families, fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth.

The event shed light on the significance of research-practice partnerships as collaborative endeavors aimed at enhancing teaching practices.  Participants gained valuable insights into the intersection of research and practical application in educational settings.

Following the presentations, the audience engaged in a question and answer period, further enriching the discourse and fostering a sense of collective learning and collaboration.

The event not only showcased innovative approaches but also underscored the importance of forging partnerships between academia, community organizations, and educational institutions. By bridging research and practice, attendees left with a deeper understanding of how collaborative efforts can drive positive change in education.

For more information on upcoming events and initiatives, visit the events section of the Anchin Center website.