CAST (Center for Applied Special Technology)

Introducing the CITES 2.0 Cohort Districts—leaders in building sustainable, inclusive educational technology systems ?? Over the next four years, these districts will receive high-quality technical assistance at no cost to strengthen their inclusive tech ecosystems using the CITES Framework. What does this mean for them? ?? Expert guidance from leaders in accessibility and inclusive educational technology ?? Collaboration with a national community of districts committed to inclusive ed tech ?? Hands-on implementation with strategies that create meaningful change ?? National recognition for their leadership in shaping the future of accessible technology in schools These districts are setting the standard for ensuring all students, including those with #disabilities, have access to #inclusive and effective #technologysolutions. Their work will shape the future of equitable and accessible learning environments nationwide. Join us in celebrating these forward-thinking districts as they pave the way for the next phase of inclusive innovation. Learn more: cites.cast.org Christine Fox Mia Laudato

Already familiar with Universal Design for Learning? This live virtual class is designed for educators ready to apply UDL at a deeper level, redesign learning environments, and build engagement strategies. Class runs April 24-25, 2025. Register now: https://lnkd.in/gEjiGBWt

#TBT to a powerful conversation with Andratesha Fritzgerald & Allison Smith Posey on the role of storytelling in shaping education. How do student experiences reveal the barriers in our systems? How can we use storytelling as a tool to design inclusive classrooms? In this webinar, we learned: ?? How student perspectives push education forward ?? Why listening to diverse voices leads to stronger, more inclusive teaching ?? What it means to create learning spaces where every student feels seen and valued These insights challenge us to rethink how we listen, adapt, and design learning experiences that work for all students. If you missed this conversation, now is the time to revisit it. Watch the full webinar here: https://lnkd.in/g7RXNeny

Hey #CEC2025! Be sure to stop by and say HELLO to our fabulous CASTies Kelli Suding, M.Ed. Michelle Soriano at booth #224 ?? Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Christine Fox Mia Laudato

I've been thinking a lot about the implications of AI for better supporting neurodivergent students. I spoke on a SXSW EDU panel on the topic, and it gave me the opportunity to dive deep and hear from leading thinkers who have championed universal design for learning (UDL) and are now at the forefront of the AI Readiness movement on behalf of their communities. H/t Lindsay Jones John Marble Maya Israel. I put all my thoughts together in my most recent Substack. I'd be remiss to omit mentioning Karawynn Long's blog post from several years ago that sparked my initial curiosity (thanks B Cavello for sharing it!).

Want a hands-on, interactive introduction to Universal Design for Learning? This two-day live virtual class is designed to help PreK-12 educators explore the core concepts of UDL and apply practical strategies for creating flexible, inclusive instruction. Limited to 30 participants, this session offers direct engagement with #CAST experts to help educators: ? Understand and apply the foundational principles of UDL ? Use UDL design processes to develop more accessible and engaging lessons ? Learn how to identify barriers to learning and create more flexible instructional approaches This course is ideal for educators, curriculum coordinators, administrators, instructional technology specialists, and professional learning facilitators looking to strengthen their UDL knowledge and practice. Live session dates: April 10-11, 2025 Spots are limited—secure your place today: https://lnkd.in/gaEEav9r

The #CAST team is ready to welcome Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) 2025 attendees! Stop by Booth #224 to explore innovative resources and connect with our team. Plus, we can’t wait to see our friends Alexis Reid and Lisa Carey, two incredible #CAST authors! #CEC2025 ?? Kelli Suding, M.Ed. Michelle Soriano Mia Laudato Christine Fox

Ready to explore Universal Design for Learning on your own schedule? This new self-directed online course gives PreK-12 educators a flexible way to deepen their understanding of UDL and apply practical strategies for designing inclusive, engaging, and accessible classrooms. What you will gain: ? A structured, self-paced learning experience with 11 digital modules ? Tools to design lesson plans using UDL principles ? Strategies to support learner variability in every classroom ? A CAST completion certificate upon finishing the course This is ideal for educators, curriculum coordinators, administrators, and instructional specialists looking to strengthen their teaching practice with research-backed strategies. Start anytime in 2025 and complete the course at your own pace ?? Learn more and register today: https://lnkd.in/gzyF7fKD

Beth Fornauf, Research Scientist at CAST (Center for Applied Special Technology), has been awarded the Kim Fries Early Career Award at NEERO 2025 ?? Beth shared, “I’m so honored to receive the Fries Award. So much of my research is possible because of the support of my community, colleagues within NEERO and at CAST (Center for Applied Special Technology), and because of the amazing teachers and students we get to learn with and from in the process.” This recognition honors her groundbreaking research in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and her commitment to equity and inclusion in teacher education. Beth’s work addresses barriers in teacher recruitment, preparation, and retention, reflecting CAST’s mission to transform education and expand learning opportunities for all. We are thrilled to celebrate her accomplishments as she leads the way in advancing UDL research. Congratulations, Beth Fornauf! Learn more about the award and her impactful work at www.neero.org.

What if every student in your classroom had the tools to succeed? This instructor-led online course introduces Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a framework to help educators design flexible, student-centered learning experiences that remove barriers to engagement and achievement. Educators will gain: ? Research-backed strategies to reach every learner ? A structured approach to implementing UDL in their classrooms ? Support in designing lessons that foster engagement, representation, and action & expression This is a great opportunity for PreK-12 educators, administrators, and instructional specialists looking to strengthen their teaching practice with proven, research-based strategies. The next cohort begins June 2, 2025. Reserve your spot today: https://lnkd.in/g9nDVGHB