INSIGHTS & IDEAS

The Education Table Blog

Practical strategies, research, and perspectives from the Novak Education team to help educators strengthen instruction, leadership, and inclusive systems.

Universal Design for Learning

Calling All Leaders...Why the Time for Change is Now

Why School Leaders Need to Take This Opportunity to Plan for a Return to Comfort but NOT a Return to Normalcy Sometimes timing is everything. Just a moment can be the difference ...
Michael Woodlock · August 19, 2021
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Leadership

Because of a Teacher

Many of you may not know this, but I was non-renewed from my first teaching job.
Katie Novak · August 8, 2021
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Science image

UDL Makeovers: Science Lesson Plans

When you think of implementing Universal Design for Learning into science lessons, it may not always be the easiest right off the bat. But we can assure you that implementing the ...
Allison Posey · July 4, 2021
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Biodiversity Lesson Plan
Universal Design for Learning

UDL Makeover: Science Lesson Plan

Conserving Biodiversity Original Lesson Plan (Brian Johnson, High School Science Teacher in Vermont) Before and After Goals Original Lesson Plan What is a current threat to the ...
Allison Posey · July 4, 2021
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Geology lesson plan
Universal Design for Learning

UDL Makeover: Science Lesson Plan

Geologic Time Scale Activity Original Lesson Plan (from Allison Winward, High School Science Teacher in Washington)
Tom Thibodeau · July 4, 2021
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Windy road
Professional Learning

How NOT To implement UDL...and still find success

One District’s UDL Journey During Difficult Times The last 60 years have produced an amazing parade of talented and successful musicians. But if you asked a person on the street ...
Mike Fischer · June 27, 2021
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Writing
Implementing UDL

Universal Design for Writing

Writing is an invaluable academic skill, but it is also much more than that. It is a tool for thinking, a means of personal expression, and a vehicle of self-discovery. Despite ...
Dr. Randy Laist · June 17, 2021
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good door design - norman door
Universal Design for Learning

The Power of Good Design

Navigating Design to Meet the Needs of Learners Doors shouldn’t be hard to open, but this one was.
Matthew Green · May 16, 2021
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MTSS = the larry bird of education
Leadership

PBIS, RTI, and MTSS

What is the relationship between PBIS, RTI, and MTSS? Larry Bird was one of the greatest basketball players of his time. He played in the NBA from 1979 to 1992 after an incredible ...
Tom Thibodeau · May 9, 2021
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