August 19, 2026
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Title: Back-to-School Planning with the CAST UDL Guidelines
The first weeks of school set the tone for the entire year. In this free UDL-Con: International 2026 webinar, we move beyond basic icebreakers to explore how the CAST Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guidelines serve as a strategic roadmap for the new year. By focusing on the intentional design of inclusive routines and flexible learning environments from day one, educators can begin to remove barriers to engagement before they even emerge.
This session offers K-12 teachers, specialists, and leaders a practical transition from theory to classroom application. We will examine how to prioritize accessibility tools and instructional practices that foster learner agency and a sense of belonging for every student. Rather than a standard overview, this webinar provides a deep dive into the systems that make UDL sustainable throughout the academic year.
Participants will gain tools and evidence-based strategies designed to be implemented immediately. We will discuss how to shift from “back-to-school” management to a proactive design process that supports diverse learner needs. Join us to transform your start-of-year preparations into a foundation for a high-impact, inclusive, and expertly designed sustainable practice.
Niel Albero, Senior Professional Learning and Implementation Specialist, CAST
Melissa Sanjeh, Senior Director of Professional Learning and Implementation, CAST
Can’t attend the live webinar? No worries! RSVP now and we’ll send you a link to a recording the following week.
We’re hosting free webinars as part of UDL-Con: International 2026 nearly every month until September! Be sure to check out our other upcoming free webinars, or join our mailing list to stay updated on all UDL-Con news and events.
UDL-Con: International 2026 is a global series of events dedicated to advancing Universal Design for Learning (UDL), a framework for addressing the educational needs of diverse and variable learners in many settings across all stages of life. Throughout 2026, UDL-Con is bringing the UDL community together through a series of free webinars, a live two day global online conference, and in-person events designed to spark innovation and strengthen inclusive learning.