The Education Table

In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, does it make sense to implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in the classroom when standardized tests don’t offer the same options to students? Katie will share a story, talk about some key statistics and research, and provide test-taking strategies that will help educators prepare their students for those standardized tests—without compromising accessibility.

Implementing UDL can help students perform their best on standardized tests despite the limitations of the tests themselves and in this episode we’ll equip educators with strategies for preparing students including being honest about the purpose of testing, teaching test-taking strategies, using exemplars and rubrics, practicing test-taking skills, building digital literacy skills, and understanding the psychology of multiple-choice tests, all with the end goal of empowering our students to succeed!

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In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, what is the difference between Multi-Tiered System of Supports and Response to Intervention or most commonly known as MTSS vs. RTI? These two frameworks are so often used interchangeably, but their distinct differences are important to understand. In this episode, Katie will share insights into each approach and discuss how they impact teaching and learning. 

This episode is best for educators looking to make system-wide shifts. You’ll walk away with concrete strategies for fostering MTSS, such as integrating academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports, implementing data systems, and promoting collective efficacy and shared responsibility. 

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In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, what is different about the updated version of the UDL Guidelines (UDL Guidelines 3.0)?, and we’ll discuss why these differences are important (for our learners, our teachers, our learning communities). Katie will share a story that illustrates the shift in focus from creating expert learners to cultivating learner agency (hint, a big focus of the update!), delve into the key differences in the guidelines, and discuss how these changes can impact your teaching practice. 

With Universal Design for Learning rapidly taking over as best practice in schools, workplaces, and design - this episode is a must listen for those looking to understand the shift in language and implementation with the new update to the UDL Guidelines 3.0. Hit play on The Education Table.

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In this special edition of the Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll explore the question, what is Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, or MTSS, from a Teacher’s perspective. Throughout the episode, Katie will provide practical strategies for enhancing Tier 1 instruction, including prioritizing professional learning, collaborating with colleagues, and embracing data collection and analysis. These practices have the potential to reduce the need for intensive interventions and help to promote increased student learning.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand the power of data-driven decision making, how to advocate for resources and support to enhance tier one instruction, and how you can take action to reduce the need for intensive interventions by creating a strong Tier 1 foundation, plus much more! Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this special leadership edition of the Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll explore what is a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, or MTSS? I'll share a story about the importance of building a strong foundation, and dive into the research on implementation drivers and how effective execution helps to increase teacher satisfaction and reduce burnout. Plus, I’ll share right-now strategies for effectively implementing MTSS in your school or district. 

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand that MTSS is more than just tiers of support and you’ll get to know the three key drivers of effective MTSS implementation, the importance of data and reflection and what to do next in your journey towards creating a comprehensive system that supports student and teacher success. 

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

Let’s dive into the dynamic duo of UDL and DI! In this episode of the Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the relationship between Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (DI). We’ll look at each educational framework’s origin, why a traditional one-size-fits-all approach is not effective, and Katie will share concrete strategies for implementing UDL and DI. 

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how UDL and DI can revolutionize inclusive education when used together.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this Episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak tackles the question, is there evidence that inclusion is good for all learners? She discusses the importance of creating inclusive learning environments and highlights the benefits of an inclusive classroom setting for all students - including those with and without disabilities. She examines the stance on inclusion from the United Nations and dives into evidence from the Herir reports on the effectiveness of student outcomes and explains how Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and differentiated instruction play an integral role in its success. Katie will provide strategies for implementing inclusive practices, such as using diagnostic assessments, leveraging blended learning models, and shifting to student-led learning.

This episode is best for those seeking to understand the benefits of inclusive learning environments and for educators that are looking for strategies to implement into their classrooms to create a space where all students have the opportunity to succeed. 

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak answers your burning question, How can you support student reflection in the classroom? She’ll explore the value of daily reflection and offer practical strategies that teachers can implement to help students build strong decision-making skills and become more capable of making informed choices. The goal is that by the end of this episode, listeners will be armed with the knowledge to help students reflect effectively across all subject areas.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll discuss the concept of building a more student-led classroom and share strategies for implementing this approach. The research and positive impact are clear, and we’re laying it all out on the table, including a story about how Katie transitioned her morning routine from a madhouse to a kid-led cafe. 

This episode is for teachers looking to find balance while students experience more responsibility, success, and engagement. It will also benefit those who want to empower students to take charge of their own learning, foster accountability, and help prepare them with future-ready skills (all while sipping coffee while it’s still hot!). 

Stay tuned for future episodes as we share effective strategies for creating student-led classrooms with UDL and blended learning. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll examine the impact of grade-level standards and high expectations on student achievement. We’ll also review the importance of firm goals and teacher clarity, drawing from personal experiences and research, and, as always, share concrete strategies for implementation. This episode will highlight blended learning models, including station rotation, the power of UDL, a discussion about decoding, and the value of diagnostic assessments.

This episode is for teachers who want to enhance student engagement and create purposeful learners. It will also benefit those looking to empower learners and improve communication with their students.

Stay tuned for future episodes as we share student engagement strategies and use data to inform decisions. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.