About Network for ALL

The Network for Advancements in Learning and Leadership (ALL) was founded in the spring of 2025 by Harvard alumnus, Dr. Dessalines (Des) Floyd in Boston, Massachusetts. Des Floyd got his start at the Lee School in Dorchester, Massachusetts, a school named after the Father of the American Playground Movement. Joseph Lee was a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries who believed that public playgrounds were essential for whole child development and community wellbeing. These early principles served as the foundation for newer and ever-evolving ideas that community spaces are the perfect places to cultivate character, civility and a collective sense of belonging.

Des believes in the power of experimentation and learning through play to transform communities. He also believes that advancements in technology—although mostly beneficial—have contributed to disconnectedness, social isolation and a rapid decline in people’s sense of community. His early work was science-based and research driven. He worked in the field of Genetics at Nemours Children’s Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida and conducted competency-driven field-based research at the Mayo Clinic. His fascination with brain expression, human potential, and learning divergence drew him to the classroom.

Des imagined the classroom as a School of Experience, a ‘professional playground’ where he taught and lead at multiple levels (elementary, secondary, college/university) and under different conditions (in person, online). Teaching subjects included reading, innovations in literacy learning, designing & implementing human support systems and cultural transformation by design.

His education career spanned nearly three decades and reignited a passion to help make learning happen through self-empowerment and community connection.

Des currently lives in the heart of Boston situated at the intersection of many different cities. He likes to think of his home as a ‘room high up on a hill’. It is not uncommon for him to look out and reflect on the complexities & interconnectedness of ALL life and living.

Neighborhoods across the nation that were once thriving industrial beacons of hope have now become segregated communities characterized by disinvestment, pollution and historic redlining. The same neighborhoods face dire economic, educational and grave disparities in health outcomes for the residents who live there. By working in partnership with those in proximity to such challenges, we aim to support them in harnessing their existing strengths, acquire new competencies, and effectively utilize resources for their collective betterment. We are passionate about making investments in human potential, recognizing it as the most valuable asset.

Network for ALL is a dynamic network of businesses and future-thinking organizations united by a common purpose: empower neighborhood communities across the nation. Our approach is rooted in fostering learning and leadership to the benefit of local communities by realizing and cultivating human potential.