David W. Reis Senior Vice President, Chief Information and Digital Officer | School of Education and Human Development News & Events University of Miami
The School of Education and Human Development has a long history of adapting to meet the educational needs of its community. Initially focused on training qualified teachers, the school offered bachelor's and master's degrees in education with an emphasis on practical training. By the mid-20th century, it expanded to include advanced degrees and specialized programs in fields such as educational leadership and psychology.
In 1935, a partnership with Dade County Public Schools led to the creation of the Merrick Demonstration School, which provided hands-on classroom experience for students. This collaboration evolved into the Henry S. West Laboratory School by 1954, around the same time that doctoral programs were introduced.
The school's focus broadened further in the late 20th century to encompass counseling and physical education programs. This holistic approach resulted in a name change in 2011 to better represent its commitment to fostering human potential across various disciplines. It also became a pioneer by offering its first online graduate degree.
Today, multidisciplinary programs cover areas like teaching and learning, kinesiology, sports sciences, and psychological studies. New initiatives such as applied learning sciences, sports medicine, and data analytics address modern workforce demands. These offerings allow students to engage with lifelong human development from early childhood through adulthood while promoting community involvement.
Research remains central to the school's mission. Faculty members undertake projects spanning neuromuscular research, active aging, STEM education in bilingual classrooms, and culturally informed family therapy interventions. Facilities like the Community and Educational Well-Being Research Center and other labs prepare future educators and researchers for impactful careers.
Partnerships with nonprofits and public schools help tackle issues like college access for foster youth, sports injury prevention, climate gentrification, and affordable housing. Programs emphasize innovative teaching methods rooted in experiential learning.
Committed to translational research and community impact, the school continues developing leaders ready to contribute meaningfully worldwide.
Read more about this history in Miami Magazine Centennial Edition online.
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