Laura Schifter

Memorable Experience(s) with CAST: 

I first learned about CAST from David Rose during my master's year at HGSE. I had been super anxious about Harvard. As a dyslexic student, I was afraid I didn't belong. I was taking HT 100 for Mind, Brain, and Education, and the first time I heard David speak, I was hooked. First, he told great stories and jokes, which made the class significantly more interesting--a nice way to tap into the affective network. I remember he used to joke about how features of Universal Design helped many other people than intended, like closed captioning helping spouses at night, as well as his dancing skills.

Everything he said made sense to me as a dyslexic individual. I felt seen learning about learner variability in that way, and I saw UDL as a framework that just made sense. Whenever I experienced "good teaching" in the past, it was when the principles of UDL were applied. Through David, I then had the opportunity to learn and work with the amazing team at CAST. In writing, professional development, and more, I saw the CAST team dedicated to increasing access and making learning successful and fun. I'm forever grateful for the work of CAST, for how it has shaped the teaching of so many educators, and for how it has supported all learners, including learners like me.

Also, one of my proudest moments working with CAST was getting the definition of UDL in federal legislation!

What Does CAST Mean to You?

Engagement, accessibility, and good teaching.

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

The opportunity to celebrate the millions of students whose lives have been made better by UDL and the millions more to come.