OM DENNE EPISODE
On Beyond the Box, host Dr. Ronald G. Taylor sits down with Christopher Sanzeri, Assistant Director for Curriculum and Instruction in Specialized Student Services at Elgin Area School District U-46. Christopher shares how U-46 is rethinking special education curriculum design, moving away from fragmented, supplement-heavy models toward coherent, aligned instructional systems.
This conversation explores the district’s shift to selecting high-quality curricular resources first and then building frameworks around them, as well as the launch of the Multi Abilities Classroom (MAC) model. Christopher also discusses balancing curriculum coherence with teacher autonomy, using common assessments responsibly, and leveraging new tools, including AI, to better individualize instruction while maintaining equity and rigor for all learners.
Key Moments
02:37 Shifting from framework-first to resource-first curriculum design
03:32 Building coherence through aligned instructional materials
05:13 Origins of the Multi Abilities Classroom (MAC) model
06:47 Aligning programs for students with diverse learning needs
08:40 Redistricting as a catalyst for system redesign
09:21 Launching MAC with districtwide planning and support
12:06 Curriculum coherence and teacher autonomy
14:24 Rethinking grading and common assessments
15:42 Clarifying accommodations versus modifications
17:21 Using AI tools to individualize assessments
22:19 Aligning MAC goals to the district strategic plan
25:51 Measuring success through student access and voice
Why You’ll Love This Episode
This episode offers a thoughtful, practical look at how special education systems can move beyond patchwork solutions toward intentional, scalable design. Christopher shares real examples of how curriculum coherence, clear expectations, and smart use of technology can improve access to grade-level content without sacrificing individualization.
Listeners will also gain insight into how districts can monitor implementation, honor teacher expertise, and elevate student voice as a meaningful measure of success. It’s a must-listen for leaders navigating inclusion, equity, and instructional alignment in complex systems.
Connect with Christopher Sanzeri | Assistant Director for Curriculum & Instruction Specialized Student Services
Elgin Area School District U-46
Website: https://www.u-46.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-sanzeri-8a4a2b93/
Connect with Dr. Ronald G. Taylor
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ronald-taylor-59999981/
NovoDia
Website: https://www.novodia.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/novodiaed/
About Beyond the Box
Beyond the Box is the podcast where district leaders share how they are customizing curriculum to better serve teachers and students, and how they are filling gaps in boxed programs to ensure alignment and consistency.
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Beyond the Box for more conversations on curriculum, instruction, and equity-focused leadership.
