Here are some recent stories featuring the Institute for School-Community Partnerships, Integrated Services, and Child Mental Health and Educational Policy.
Institute Presentation and Florida Association of School Psychologists Conference
On October 16, 2025, students and faculty from the Institute for School Community Partnerships presented at the 52nd Florida Association of School Psychologists Annual Conference in Palm Harbor, Florida. Their presentation “What are Community Schools and Why Should School Psychologists Care?” was insightful and well received by those in attendance!.
School psychologists strengthen community schools by using data-driven needs assessments to guide interventions and build bridges between universities, community organizations, and schools. By supporting multi-tiered systems of support, wrap-around services, and elevating student voice, they help create thriving, collaborative learning environments where every child can succeed.
Duke University & North Carolina Community Schools Coalition Visit HCPS Community Schools
On October 13 & 14, 2025, Hillsborough County Public Schools and USF’s ISCP welcomed representatives from Duke University, Elizabeth City State University, East Carolina University, and North Carolina Central University to explore best practices in University-Assisted Community Schools. Site visits to Gibsonston Elementary and Marshall Middle Magnet IB World Community School highlighted strong leadership, family engagement, and the power of partnerships that connect academics, community, and student well-being.
- Additional Info/Key Takeaways – Relationships are everything! Trust and consistent presence drive long-term success.
- The Power of the Pivot – Flexibility and adaptability are critical traits for staff navigating changing funding and policy conditions.
- Local Roots, Lasting Impact – Many coordinators serve the same communities they grew up in, creating authentic connections.
- Sustaining Momentum – Despite funding uncertainties, school-based teams remain committed to the work because of its visible impact on families and neighborhoods.
Institute faculty affiliate appointed to the NASP Graduate Education Committee
We are proud to share that Kahlila Lawrence, faculty affiliate with the ISCP and associate professor of instruction at USF’s College of Education, has been appointed to the National Association of School Psychologists’ Graduate Education Committee. As one of only eight members selected nationwide, she will help guide strategic efforts to enhance graduate-level training in school psychology.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute to such an important aspect of our field,” said Dr. Lawrence. “I look forward to the impact the GEC will have on graduate education this upcoming term.”
Find out more here!
Community Schools on the Move in Hillsborough County!
In the 2024–2025 school year, Hillsborough County Public Schools celebrated a significant milestone as Mort Elementary, Broward Elementary, and Burney Elementary—three Community Schools—rose from a “C” to a “B” school grade. This achievement reflects the district’s commitment to innovation through the Community Schools model, which integrates academics with vital health, social, and community services to support the whole child and family.
Each of these schools implemented targeted strategies to drive improvement. From extended learning opportunities and on-site tutoring to family engagement nights and access to mental health services, the schools created environments where students and families felt supported and empowered. Teachers, administrators, and community partners worked collaboratively to identify student needs and deliver wraparound services that removed barriers to learning.
The results speak for themselves: improved academic performance, stronger school-community relationships, and a renewed sense of pride among students and staff. The success of Mort, Broward, and Burney Elementary Schools demonstrates the transformative power of the Community Schools approach and sets a strong foundation for continued growth in the years ahead.
School District Partnership
The Institute for School-Community Partnerships is partnering with Hillsborough County Public Schools to enhance and develop community schools — public schools that merge academics with essential services to improve student success and community well-being.
On January 15, 2025, the ISCP hosted its Unveiling of University-Assisted Community Schools launch event at the USF College of Education David C. Anchin Center. The event showcased the University-Assisted Community Schools model, a comprehensive approach that integrates four pillars: integrated student support, expanded and enriched learning time and opportunities, active family and community engagement, and collaborative leadership and practices.
“I view this project as a wonderful example of how USF can be involved in community-engaged research that impacts the local communities we serve in addition to national and international impact,” said José Castillo, co-director of the institute. “The opportunity to hear from students, families, and communities about what is important to them and what strengths they possess makes me excited to do this work.”