Spotlight on Innovation:
Natomas Charter School’s Star Academy Leads the Way with UDL
At Natomas Charter School, innovation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a pillar. Since its founding in 1993 by trailblazers Charlie Leo and Ting Sung, shortly after the passage of the California Charter School Act, Natomas Charter has been lighting the way in student-centered education. Guided by its core values of Students First, Accountability, and Innovation, this multi-academy school continues to push boundaries and reimagine what is possible in learning. Nowhere is that spirit more alive than at Star Academy, the TK-5 elementary school site, and the heartbeat of Universal Design for Learning implementation within Natomas Charter.
Principal Diana Wilson is a passionate educator with over 20 years in the field. Now in her third year as principal and eighth as a site administrator, she brings a wealth of classroom experience and an unwavering belief:
"All students can learn at high levels when provided with the right environment and support."
That belief became action thanks to a serendipitous conversation over bowling, of all places, with longtime friend Laurie Balsano Wright, an Open Access Coordinator with Placer County Office of Education. One strike later, UDL was on the radar at Star Academy, and there was no turning back.
UDL in Action: Where Every Learner Shines
For the past year, the Open Access Team from Placer County SELPA has been working hand-in-hand with Star Academy educators to bring UDL to life. Through professional development, classroom coaching, and ongoing collaboration, the results have been inspiring:
-
Visual Supports Everywhere: From annotated anchor charts to personalized checklists, classrooms are filled with tools that support independent learning and student agency. (Considerations 1.2 & 4.2)
-
Walls That Tell Stories: Student work, family photos, and diverse representations turn classrooms into communities of pride and belonging. (Considerations 1.3 & 8.4)
-
Flexible Seating Options: Students choose the seating that fits their comfort and learning needs — from wobble stools to cozy corners. (Consideration 7.1)
-
Amplified Student Voice: Learners are encouraged to think differently, share openly, and explore multiple ways to solve problems — and every voice is valued. (Consideration 3.3)
A Model Site for UDL Learning
Star Academy is proud to be recognized as an Open Access UDL Showcase Site, inviting educators from across California to witness and learn from its implementation journey. Whether you are just beginning your UDL exploration or deepening existing practices, this is the place to see theory in action.
With strong systems in place, including robust MTSS and PLC structures, and a team of deeply committed educators, Star Academy is poised to continue its leadership in inclusive, accessible, and joyful learning for all students.
As we head into the 2025–26 school year, the momentum continues. All grade levels will receive additional team-based coaching through Open Access, building on last year’s foundation and setting the stage for even greater growth.
“We’re not just implementing UDL,” says Principal Wilson, “we’re building a school where every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated every single day.”
Want to Visit? Learn? Collaborate?
Principal Wilson would love to connect with you. Schedule a visit to our UDL Showcase Site or reach out to learn more about our journey with Open Access. Together, let’s ensure every learner has access to a thriving, inclusive education.
| 
