The Every Child Succeeds Act (ESSA), which replaces No Child Left Behind (NCLB) as the federal legislation for K-12 public education, gives states greater responsibility and flexibility to set rigorous academic standards and design high quality assessments that are accessible to all students. The law calls for states to use the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL)—a scientifically that “(A) provides flexibility in the ways information is presented, in the ways students respond or demonstrate knowledge and skills, and in the ways students are engaged; and (B) reduces barriers in instruction, provides appropriate accommodations, supports, and challenges, and maintains high achievement expectations for all students”—in developing assessments (and alternate assessments for students with significant cognitive disabilities) and delivering instruction.
The new quick-reference laminated guide Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Florida State Standards (FSS) by Joseph Casbarro is designed to help Florida educators understand and incorporate UDL. It provides an overview UDL, along with strategies for providing multiple means of representation, multiple means of expression, and multiple means of engagement. It also describes specific UDL best practices that enhance implementation of the Language Arts Standards (LAFS) and Mathematics Standards (MAFS). Other features include a UDL lesson planning framework and a review of approaches— such as differentiated instruction, brain-compatible learning, multi-tiered system of supports, cooperative learning and project-based learning— that support UDL in the classroom.
Hot off the press, the guide is now available for purchase on our website. Schools may make tax-exempt purchases online by setting up a “Schools” account. Quantity discounts are offered on this and all laminated reference guides published by National Professional Resources/Dude Publishing.
About the Author
Joseph Casbarro is the Chief Operating Officer at National Professional Resources. He worked as an educator for 30 years in public schools, holding administrative positions including building principal, director of special programs, and assistant superintendent of schools. He received his PhD in school psychology from Syracuse University and has taught for many years at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Casbarro is the author of the book Test Anxiety & What You Can Do About It, as well as several quick-reference laminated guides published by National Professional Resources/Dude Publishing.
