Tyran W. Butler, Ph.D.
Director & Research Scientist of Early Learning & Literacy
Dr. Butler brings a wealth of experience to the role in developing academic programs in early childhood education, advancing workforce development initiatives, and serving in senior administrative leadership roles. She is dedicated to advancing educational practices and committed to creating positive change.
In her role as Director of Literacy and Early Learning, Dr. Butler leads Lastinger Center initiatives aimed at enhancing early childhood and literacy professional learning programs, fostering collaboration with educators, researchers, community stakeholders, and policy makers, and driving the development of cutting-edge strategies and programs to optimize the provision of high quality learning experiences.
Dr. Butler holds a Ph.D. in Special Education and Teacher Education with an emphasis on the prevention and remediation of reading difficulties, from the University of Florida. She has published on evidence-based instructional practices, inclusion, and teacher development. Her commitment to improving educational outcomes aligns seamlessly with the Lastinger Center’s mission to research, develop, and scale equitable educational innovations for adults and children that put all learners on trajectories for lifelong success.
Dr. Butler has extensive leadership experience, having served as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Career and Technical Education at Santa Fe College and brings to the Center a unique combination of academic insight and practical experience.