Thirty teachers. Four sessions. One goal: lessons that work for every learner from the start. REC1 is launching the Four Corners UDL Teacher Academy, a selective cohort of 30 general and special education teacher leaders trained by CAST, the national organization behind Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Applications close Monday, November 2 at 3:00 pm.
Why UDL
UDL is a research-based framework for designing instruction that works for all learners. Instead of adapting a lesson after students struggle, teachers plan flexibility in from the beginning. It rests on three principles:
Engagement, the why. Multiple ways to engage students and keep them motivated.
Representation, the what. Multiple ways to present information, such as text, audio, visuals and hands-on models.
Action and expression, the how. Multiple ways for students to show what they know.
Because UDL removes barriers before they appear, it helps students with disabilities learn alongside their peers in general education classrooms. The academy is about putting that into practice.
The commitment: four sessions
November 18, 2026: Full-day in-person training with CAST at San Juan College, Farmington
January 27, 2027: Full-day in-person training with NMUDL at the Farmington Civic Center
February 10, 2027: One-hour virtual follow-up
March 31, 2027: One-hour virtual follow-up
Who should apply
Teachers in REC1 member districts. General and special education teachers are both welcome.
Ready to try it. You want to use UDL in your own classroom, then share it with colleagues.
Collaborative leaders. Peers see you as someone who brings people along.
All in. You can attend all four sessions.
How to apply
Talk with your building administrator. Let them know you're interested and share this post.
Get a short letter of recommendation. Your administrator's letter approves your participation, release time and substitute coverage. It also confirms their support for you sharing UDL with colleagues.
Apply online by Monday, November 2 at 3:00 pm. Seats are limited and allocated by district.
Questions? Contact Kate Morris, Special Education Services Coordinator, at kmorris@nmrec1.org.
