In this month’s A Message From section, we are honored to spotlight Emily Mostovoy-Luna, an educational consultant and inclusive practices “bridge maker” with nearly 20 years of experience spanning special education, school leadership, and equity-centered systems change. Through her work with Novak Education, Emily supports educators in designing joyful, inclusive learning environments grounded in Universal Design for Learning, student voice, and learner agency. She also consults through Outside Pin Consulting and her own organization, Bridge 2 Inclusive Practices, partnering with teams to strengthen inclusive instruction through compassion, curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.

In this month’s A Message From Section, we’re thrilled to spotlight Principal Diana Wilson of Natomas Charter School’s Star Academy, a true leader in student-centered innovation. Under her guidance, Star Academy has become a model for Universal Design for Learning in action, where every child is seen, supported, and celebrated. Discover how the school's vision and partnership with the Open Access Team are shaping inclusive and joyful learning for all.

In this newsletter's Spotlight Section, we are thrilled to showcase the transformative work of the East San Gabriel Valley SELPA in advancing Assistive Technology (AT) across its 16 Local Education Agencies. Through a steadfast commitment to inclusive education and a strong partnership with Open Access, the SELPA’s dedicated leads have embraced professional learning, capacity building, and innovative instructional strategies to ensure all students have equitable access to their education. By prioritizing collaboration, hands-on training, and targeted outreach,...

In this newsletter's Spotlight Section, we are excited to share the proactive steps being taken by Redwood Preparatory Charter School as part of their journey to implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL). With the support of Open Access, the school is enhancing instructional practices, fostering student engagement, and building a culture of inclusivity that meets the diverse needs of all learners...

As the warmth of summer fades into the crisp beginnings of autumn, students are gearing up for another school year. Among them is Max, a soon-to-be sixth grader brimming with anticipation and a clear vision of what makes his learning experience truly optimal...

The Morongo Unified School District (MUSD) and SELPA covers 1,400 square miles in the high desert between Joshua Tree National Park to the South and the U.S. Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) to the North. MUSD serves a diverse population that reflects the homesteaders who contributed to the community's growth and the people who love the remoteness of the desert. Last year, Morongo SELPA implemented a Goal Setting...

In this month’s A Message From Section, we are excited to spotlight the meaningful and inspiring work taking place in Sonoma County. Through a strong and collaborative partnership with Open Access, Sonoma County continues to expand inclusive, evidence-based practices that reduce barriers and increase access for students with disabilities. Serving as regional leads in Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Assistive Technology, the Sonoma County SELPA team works alongside educators across the state to provide training, coaching, and shared tools that support thoughtful IEP decision-making and intentional integration of AAC and AT. This collective effort is helping schools cultivate learning environments where students have authentic opportunities to communicate, actively engage, and truly belong.

In this newsletter’s Spotlight Section, we are excited to share about Open Access and our work for the upcoming school year. As we step into 2025–2026, Open Access is energized by our renewed commitment to increasing student access through Universal Design for Learning, Assistive Technology, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication. This year, our efforts are strategically organized into four powerful areas: Universal Capacity, Targeted Capacity, Intensive Capacity, and Integration & Impact. Each of our goals are designed to build educator expertise, remove barriers to learning, and create equitable opportunities for every student to thrive...

In this newsletter's Spotlight Section, we proudly highlight the groundbreaking steps being taken by Hollister High School in its journey to enhance communication access for all students through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) implementation. With the support of Open Access and the Diagnostic Center, Northern California, Hollister High is transforming instructional practices, fostering inclusivity, and empowering students with diverse communication needs. By prioritizing professional development, collaborative learning, and cutting-edge AAC strategies...

In this newsletter's Spotlight Section, we proudly highlight the proactive steps being taken by Guadalupe Union School District and Lompoc Unified School District as part of their participation in the Santa Barbara Inclusion Network. Both districts are on a journey to implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL), demonstrating a strong commitment to creating inclusive learning environments that meet the diverse needs of all students...

In the realm of education, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is gaining momentum as a framework to support diverse learners in classrooms. UDL is an approach that informs the creation of educational resources and settings designed to be inclusive and accommodating to all students, regardless of their diverse needs and abilities...

في قسم "الأضواء" من هذه النشرة، نسلط الضوء على الأثر المذهل للتكنولوجيا المساعدة، ودورها في سد الفجوة أمام الأفراد ذوي القدرات المختلفة. تعرفوا على فريق العمل المتفاني في منطقة مدارس ميرسيد يونيون الثانوية (MUHSD). انضموا إلينا للاحتفاء بالأثر الرائع للتكنولوجيا المساعدة في المنطقة. معًا، يكسرون الحواجز ويبنون مستقبلًا يمتلك فيه الجميع الأدوات التي يحتاجونها للنجاح والازدهار.