Don Johnston

Memorable Experience(s) with CAST: 

The early days of CAST were filled with thoughts and dialogues about meeting the needs of individual students and not just teaching to the middle. It seems common sense now, but back then, it was twisting educators’ thinking about what they had always done in classrooms. Being dyslexic, I often wondered what my school life would be like with that philosophy and attitude. Anne, David, and the CAST team were taking on the world of education. And for me, this was very personal.

What Does CAST Mean to You?

I spent most of my life ashamed of my learning issues. CAST made it OK to have learning issues. “I’m not broken the system is broken.” This was one of several factors that motivated me to write my book Building Wings.

How has CAST Changed Over the Years?

The philosophy of UDL is pretty much accepted as how education should be. I think CAST has moved to how we implement that philosophy. Changing attitudes is the biggest obstacle, and how that is done is no simple thing.

What Are You Most Excited About CAST Celebrating its 40th Anniversary?

Even though 40 years is a long time, much has been accomplished by CAST.

Favorite CAST-Related Quote

"Students are not broken, the system is broken."