Leila Lester

Leila Lester is a Project Manager at the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) since April 2022, specializing in research projects that implement the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework while ensuring accessibility compliance and fostering collaboration among internal and external stakeholders. Prior to this role, Leila served as a Mathematics Teacher in Prince George's County Public Schools, focusing on instructional planning and data analysis, and held the position of Assistant Director at The Goddard School of Washington, DC, where enrollment processes and teacher coaching were key responsibilities. Previous experience includes teaching 5th grade in Fairfax County Public Schools, coaching camp counselors at Fairfax County Park Authority, and working as a teacher in both Ann Arbor Public Schools and Spartan Child Development Center. Leila holds a Master's degree in Educational Studies from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor's degree in Special Education and Language Arts from Michigan State University.