CA UDL Summit

Participants will explore the intersectionality of disability and identity through an interactive experience, small and large group discussion, and deep reflection. Through this exploration, we will deepen our understanding of the role variability plays in creating spaces and places of inclusivity and belonging, and leave with tools to improve designing for all.
Session Resources

Session Resources
This session explores the vital role of belonging, joy, and play in early childhood education, specifically in pre-kindergarten through third grade (PK-3) classrooms. We will examine how creating a sense of belonging and fostering joyful learning experiences support the social-emotional development and academic success of young learners. Participants will learn practical strategies to create inclusive, emotionally supportive environments that empower students to thrive.
Play is a cornerstone of early learning, offering rich opportunities for children to explore, imagine, and develop critical cognitive and social skills. We’ll discuss how play-based learning can be seamlessly integrated into daily classroom routines, promoting student engagement, creativity, and a love for learning.
Throughout the session, participants will engage in activities that model ways to infuse joy and play into their own teaching practices. We’ll also examine the importance of culturally responsive teaching, ensuring every child feels seen and valued in the classroom. Participants will leave with tools and ideas to nurture a learning environment where all students experience a deep sense of belonging and where joy and play are integral to academic and personal growth.

In this universally designed session, we will delve into the active view of reading. We will explore tools and strategies that offer diverse pathways for students to not only engage with but also represent and apply their learning. We will address the variability among students, ensuring that our approach is inclusive and adaptable to the unique needs each learner brings to the table. Join us as we define foundational reading instruction, fostering an environment where all students can thrive in mastering the crucial skills of reading. This session will provide educators with the beginning knowledge and techniques needed to design universally accessible opportunities for every learner in the journey to literacy.

Session Resources

Explore how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can enhance access, belonging, and inclusion in Career Technical Education (CTE). This hands-on session will help participants identify barriers and apply UDL strategies to create flexible, equitable learning environments. Gain practical tools to support diverse learners and foster inclusive practices in CTE programs.
Session Resources

Inspired by the Cynthia Olmedo quote, “Diversity is being invited to the dance. Inclusion is being asked to dance. Equity is allowing you to choose the music,” this workshop will invite participants to consider research-based inclusive practices for designing equitable classrooms.

Focusing on UDL 3.0, participants will dive deeply into the guidelines to understand the recent expansions and practice designing for Learner Agency. In addition, there will be a focus on including and co-designing spaces of belonging with learners, proving concrete examples, tools, and resources to support application, guidance for lesson planning, and reflection prompts and activities to facilitate professional growth.
Session Resources