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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

Tiny Pauses that Unlocks Deeper Learning

Every teacher knows the student routine when passing back work: the quick shrug, the glance at the grade, and the swift move to shove the paper into the backpack (hey, at least ...
Dayna Coleman · December 16, 2025
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Universal Design for Learning

When Choosing the “Easy” Option Is Responsible

Okay, I have a confession. I absolutely can drive over to my favorite pizza place, Brickhouse, and pick up a Greek salad with buffalo chicken (it is truly to die for) when I’m ...
Katie Novak · December 12, 2025
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students drawing with chalk - math symbols
Professional Learning

Why Does UDL Matter in Elementary Mathematics?

Hey there, math champs! Have you ever stood in front of your class, beautifully explaining a concept, only to see a sea of blank stares, or, even trickier, a mix of confusion AND ...
Dr. Angela Burke · November 13, 2025
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Universal Design for Learning

Measuring What Matters: Looking Beyond Test Scores

We all want to know if our work is making a difference. It’s a fair question, and a deeply human one. As educators, we pour our hearts into designing flexible, inclusive learning ...
Katie Novak · October 23, 2025
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Universal Design for Learning

Rethinking Parent-Teacher Conferences through UDL

Two weeks ago, while I was signing up for my own children’s parent-teacher conferences, I was reminded of a memorable coaching conversation I had with a principal I was so lucky ...
Emily Mostovoy-Luna · October 15, 2025
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Classroom routines - redesigning classroom do-now exercise
Universal Design for Learning

Start Here! Redesign Classroom Routines with UDL

When I was teaching middle school, I began every class with a “Do Now.” Students would enter, read the prompt written on the whiteboard, and get started. It was automatic for me; ...
Katie Novak · September 23, 2025
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