Katie Novak

Memorable Experience(s) with CAST: 

I always looked to David Rose as a mentor and joked that I needed a necklace with a charm on it with a rose! One of the earliest analogies I used to explain UDL was using a collection of heels from my collection. I said that the goal was to get from Point A to Point B, but everyone had to choose a pair of heels to accomplish the task. The purpose was to demonstrate the importance of flexible methods and that simply having a choice doesn't eliminate barriers. Years later, David Rose reached out and said, "I got you a present!" He shared a calendar of the most beautiful heels in the world as an homage to one of my first analogies about UDL and as a lover of heels! It really spoke to the power of connection and the human element of teaching and learning that has always been and will always be the heartbeat of pedagogy.

What Does CAST Mean to You?

I always refer to CAST as the "Mothership" of UDL. It is the source of research, innovation, and a rich history that includes the evolution of the framework.

How has CAST Changed Over the Years?

At first, UDL was focused on learners with support needs, but the framework has evolved to impact all the edges of education. Even the United Nations is celebrating UDL for all!

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

Given that education is often about the new and shiny, it's an honor to work with a framework with so much history.

Favorite CAST-Related Quote

"Teaching, as its core, is emotional work." - David Rose