Ricki Sabia

Memorable Experience(s) with CAST: 

My most memorable experience with CAST was when I visited the office for the first time in 2005 and learned about UDL. I knew this was the framework I needed for my son, who has Down syndrome, to be successful in school and to help teachers better educate all students. That is when I started collaborating with CAST to promote UDL in state and federal policy, and I founded the National UDL Task Force in 2006.

What Does CAST Mean to You?

CAST was a very early adopter of the principles of presuming confidence and understanding in how environments and curriculum can be created to ensure that students with the widest ranges of needs and abilities can be successfully educated in the same classroom. In my opinion, the UDL framework is the single most important concept in promoting inclusive education.

How has CAST Changed Over the Years?

CAST has evolved from helping a finite number of students and educators to having a broader national impact through greater outreach and public policy. When I first learned about UDL and started doing presentations, only a few people knew what it was. Today, far more people are familiar with UDL.

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

I am very excited about CAST’s 40th anniversary because it shows that the impact of CAST and UDL will continue long into the future. David Rose said that the work he started is something that takes more than one person‘s lifetime. I am happy to see many people continuing his great work.