Dr. Lori Rakes | Dean of the School of Education
Everyone has the power to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around them. At Florida Southern College’s School of Education, our students and graduates are dedicated to doing just that—and their impact is evident through their achievements, both big and small, each and every day!
In 2026, the School of Education continues to be “On the Move!” We are committed to data-driven decision-making for program enhancements, strengthening partnerships within and beyond our community, and maintaining and expanding accreditation to uphold the highest standards of excellence for our students.
Our students and graduates make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, families, schools, school districts, higher education institutions, and organizations locally, across Florida, and throughout the nation.
Our undergraduate teacher preparation programs recruit and equip future educators for elementary and secondary teaching positions in Florida and beyond. With a strong emphasis on engaged learning, our education majors thrive in FSC classrooms and benefit from exceptional resources and programs on campus, guided by dedicated faculty who are passionate about teaching and learning. Through immersive experiences, undergraduate students spend hundreds of hours in PK-12 partner schools, gaining hands-on experience under the mentorship of highly effective teachers. Additionally, they work with young learners at our own Roberts Academy and Early Childhood Learning Lab on the FSC campus.
This year also marks an exciting new partnership with Polk County Public Schools: The Florida Southern Educator Academy at Lakeland High School. This innovative collaboration expands pathways into the teaching profession by supporting and mentoring future educators early in their academic journeys, strengthening the educator pipeline within our region and beyond.
Students and graduates of our master’s and doctoral programs are leaders in their fields, mentoring others and driving positive change within their organizations. We take immense pride in their accomplishments and in the lasting impact they create as FSC alumni.
FSC’s School of Education is transforming lives every day! Thank you for joining us on this Day of Giving 2026 as valued partners. Together, we can continue to make a lasting and meaningful impact on our students and the communities they serve.
