Dr. Phil Poekert

Clinical Professor at the University of Florida and Director of the Lastinger Center for Learning

Dr. Phil Poekert is a Clinical Professor at the University of Florida and Director of the Lastinger Center for Learning. Since being appointed in 2018, Phil has led the Lastinger Center through exponential growth in products, projects, and staff while simultaneously streamlining the Center’s focus on impacting achievement across three educational milestones: kindergarten readiness, third grade reading, and algebra.

Phil joined the Lastinger Center in 2006 as a volunteer and has climbed through the ranks of the organization. Previously serving as Assistant Director, he has led the development and expansion of local, state, and national initiatives. Beginning his career with Teach for America in the South Bronx, then teaching in secondary schools in California, Phil later moved back to Florida to teach at his hometown middle school located in West Palm Beach.

Phil has presented at various state, national, and international research conferences and has been published in national and international journals, including Teacher Education Quarterly, Educational Leadership, and Professional Development in Education. He also coordinates the international Leadership for Professional Learning Symposium and serves as the inaugural Chair of the USA chapter of the International Professional Development Association. Phil earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Florida, his Master of Science for Teachers from Pace University, and his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from New College of Florida.