SDCOE to Host Universal Design for Learning Design Jam to Make Learning Accessible for All

In an effort to support all students, the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) will host a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Design Jam at University of San Diego on June 17.

“Universal design for learning recognizes the variability and diversity of students in our classrooms" said Audrey Mendivil, SDCOE district advisor, curriculum and instruction, who is helping lead the event. “We are excited to provide the space for educators from across the county to come together and find solutions to issues or struggles they have in meeting the educational needs of all students.”

The Design Jam is free and open to any TK-12th grade educator in any content area. However, space is limited to 300 participants.

During the Design Jam, participants will learn together with opening and closing sessions led by national experts and work collaboratively in teams throughout the day at a pace and order that makes sense for them.

The agenda is designed for participants to engage in conversations and learning sessions as needed with the support of regional experts to guide and challenge the work. There is also an opportunity for educators to gain foundational knowledge about UDL in an optional half-day experience on June 16.

“Our goal is to shift our focus from trying to ‘fix students’ to designing for the barriers in our classrooms and schools,” explained Mendivil. “At the Design Jam, a teacher can bring a challenge they are having with designing a lesson or unit to meet the needs of all of their learners and other educators and experts will help identify the variability, anticipate barriers, and design for opportunity so that all students can be successful.”

Learn more about Universal Design for Learning and sign up for either or both days.