Networks > Universal Design for Learning Network
Networks > Universal Design for Learning Network
John Walker
Associate Superintendent of Educational Services
Leigh Gregory
Executive Director of Special Education and Auxiliary Services
Enrollment: 5,400–5,600
English Learners: 2–3%
SWD: 10–12%
SED: 10–15%
White: 60%
Asian: 17%
Hispanic/Latino: 11%
Two or More Races: 9%
African American: 1–2%
Acalanes Union High School District is strengthening how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is used within 90-minute instructional blocks and Algebra 1 co-taught classes so all students have clear goals, meaningful engagement, and flexible ways to show what they know. By building shared planning systems and consistent UDL practices across schools, the district aims to increase belonging, academic success, and graduation pathways for students, especially those with disabilities.
UDL training to strengthen 90-minute instructional blocks
Shared professional learning community (PLC) structure for common planning, assessment, and data use
Clear leadership expectations and walkthrough monitoring of UDL
Tools and resources for flexible assessments
Algebra 1 co-teaching partnerships with defined district expectations
Ongoing PD and instructional rounds to strengthen co-planning and co-instruction
Increase student engagement and sense of belonging
Set clearer learning goals and more flexible ways to show understanding
Achieve higher Algebra 1 completion rates
Increase UC/CSU A–G completion rates
Report fewer behavior challenges
Attain higher graduation rates for students with disabilities
Designing educational spaces for the full spectrum of learners is both a complex challenge and a deeply rewarding pursuit. We joined the UDL network to collaborate with a community of practitioners dedicated to dismantling barriers to learning. Through this network, our leadership team members have shared insights and refined our UDL practices to ensure equitable success for every student.
In addition to the reasons above, we also joined this network to help our leadership team translate UDL principles into scalable, actionable strategies that support our core mission of student success. The network collaboration provided the professional rigor necessary to dismantle learning barriers at the systemic level.