Programs

Our Programs

Stavros Center Programs, Workshops and Seminars

The Stavros Center hosts numerous *FREE* professional development opportunities throughout the year for K-12 educators to assist them with implementing economic education and financial literacy curriculum into their classrooms. 

We look forward to having you join us for exciting professional development activities. Below you will find a list of current programs and workshops for educators. For more information about upcoming workshops and seminars, please contact us.

Every workshop has a Registration Survey under the information. One week before the workshop you have registered for, you will receive a confirmation email that includes details and parking information. Additionally, a reminder is sent the day before. In person workshops are held at USF Tampa in the Stavros Center (4111 USF Willow Dr. Tampa, Fl. 33620) from 5:30pm-8:30pm Tuesdays and Thursday. Virtual Workshops vary.


Fall 2024 schedule and Survey links:


  • Thursday, September 12- Hospitality/Tourism:

  • 5:30pm-8:30pm (4111 USF Willow Dr. Tampa, Fl. 33620)

In this workshop, teachers will learn how they can use the largest industry in the world as a teaching tool. Hospitality and tourism account for one in ten jobs in the world with new and exciting career paths emerging, from social media marketer and AI specialist to sustainability manager and graphic designer. Presenters will discuss trends that are reshaping the industry, such as sustainability and technology, and programs that are being implemented in area schools to teach travel and tourism. Industry partners will share their insights about the exciting career paths high school students can begin exploring.


  • Tuesday, September 17- Picture This (Elem.):

  • 5:30pm-8:30pm (4111 USF Willow Dr. Tampa, Fl. 33620)

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Native American History Month with a unique and engaging workshop designed for young learners. We invite you to explore the world of financial literacy through children's picture books that honor diverse cultures and traditions. Participate in fun and interactive activities that reinforce lessons about financial literacy. One group will be geared towards those teaching grades K-2 while another group will focus on those teaching grades 3-5.  This workshop is strictly geared for those teaching elementary. Join us as we celebrate the rich heritages of Hispanic and Native American communities through children’s literature. 

Dinner, lesson plans, networking, and a $50 stipend for the first 30 teachers to register! Presented by Christy Gupta and Beverly Ledbetter.


  • Thursday, September 26- Muma Entrepreneurship "Artificial Intelligence and Innovation: Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs”:

  • 5:30pm-8:30pm (4111 USF Willow Dr. Tampa, Fl. 33620)

Discover how cutting-edge digital and AI platforms are transforming the way student entrepreneurs launch and grow businesses. In this engaging session, you’ll explore the latest tools that allow students to create websites, generate high-quality content, and design innovative products with just a few clicks. Learn how these powerful technologies can dramatically reduce costs and time, helping your students turn their business ideas into reality faster than ever. Don’t miss this opportunity to equip your classroom with the future of entrepreneurship!

Dinner, lesson plans, networking, and a $50 stipend for the first 30 teachers to register and attend!


  • Tuesday, October 1- Election Themed (HS):"Calculating Change: The Misery Index’s Influence on Presidential Election Outcomes"

  • 5:30-8:30pm (4111 USF Willow Dr. Tampa, 33620)

Join us for an insightful workshop that delves into the critical interplay between economic conditions and presidential election outcomes. Titled "Calculating Change: The Misery Index's Influence on Presidential Election Outcomes." This session will uncover how the combined measure of inflation and unemployment—known as the misery index—affects voter behavior and shapes political fortunes.

We will provide a thorough examination of historical trends, analyze key election years, and discuss the extent to which economic distress can predict electoral results. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the economic factors that drive political change and the power of the misery index in forecasting electoral outcomes. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the dynamics of economic indicators and their profound impact on the democratic process.

Dinner, lesson plans, networking, and a $50 stipend for the first 30 teachers to register and attend!


  • Tuesday, October 8- Election Themed (Elem./Middle)

This workshop will provide you with ready to use lessons meeting Florida ELA and social studies standards for K-5.

How will you answer when students ask you: “What is an election?”  â€śHow do we know if it fair?”  â€śWhat makes a good leader?”

Voting is both a right and a privilege. At the core of every democracy lies citizen engagement, starting with our youngest learners. Through discussions on fairness, representation, and community needs, children develop a sense of responsibility. Teaching about elections nurtures critical thinking and emotional well-being, empowering children to become active citizens. Unity is vital in democracy, regardless of election outcomes. Engaging in discussions builds emotional resilience, teaching children to manage stress and disagree respectfully. Our workshop emphasizes respect, collaboration, and understanding.

Join us to explore innovative methods for teaching elections such as choosing which of your favorite story book characters would make the best party leader (and plan a party). From interactive activities to thought-provoking discussions, we inspire educators to instill civic duty and a passion for positive contributions. Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of something truly impactful. Reserve your spot today!

Dinner, lesson plans, networking, and a $50 stipend for the first 30 teachers to register and attend!


  • Thursday, October 17- Earth Systems/Our Planet (Sustainability)

Join us for an enlightening teacher workshop delving into the intricate web of Earth's interconnected systems. In this immersive session, educators will explore the symbiotic relationships between various elements crucial to our planet's health and sustainability. Explore ways to empower students to love and care for their planet.

From the pivotal roles of recycling and energy conservation to the delicate balance of water conservation, participants will gain invaluable insights into fostering environmental stewardship within their classrooms. Engage in hands-on engineering design challenges, where creativity meets eco-conscious problem-solving, and delve into decision-making activities that illuminate the real-world impact of our choices.

Our students are old enough to save the planet!  Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to empower the next generation of Sustainability Superheroes. Reserve your spot today!

Dinner, lesson plans, networking, and a $50 stipend for the first 30 teachers to register and attend!


  • Thursday, October 24- Primary Sources and the Election (Civics)


  • Tuesday, October 29- Music Industry; Funding the Future

  • Thursday, November 7- Assembly Line

  • Tuesday, November 12- Math Adventures in Financial Literacy

  • Thursday, November 14- Ecophobia (Sustainability)

  • Tuesday, November 19- International Trade

  • Tuesday, December 3- Muma Entrepreneurship

  • Thursday, December 5- Dinner and A Movie (TBA)


Virtual Series 1- Freedom Week, Wednesdays-August 21, 28, and September 4, 4:30pm-5:30pm:

Join us for a trio of online workshops designed for educators to seamlessly integrate the values of courage, perseverance, industry, responsibility, justice, and integrity into Freedom Week curriculum while fostering entrepreneurial spirit among students. This series will provide hands-on strategies and practical activities that align with the principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Learn how to cultivate these essential character traits in upper elementary, middle, and high school students, empowering them to become ethical, innovative, and responsible future leaders.

virtual series 2- AI Suites In-Depth, Wednesdays- October 2,9,16 at 5:30pm-6:30pm:

This exciting series will dive specifically into Software Suites that deal with artificial intelligence. Specific suites will be announced in your confirmation email one week before the workshop.

Virtual Series 3- Elementary Economics, Wednesdays- November 6,13,20 at 4:00pm-5:00pm:

Using Children’s Picture Books to Teach Elementary Economics and Financial Literacy. This engaging series will explore innovative ways to teach elementary school social studies through captivating children's picture books! We will explore the functions of money, the differences between needs and wants, goods and services, and the importance of making choices. Additionally, students are introduced to concepts related to personal finance, such as saving, borrowing, and the role of banks.

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