Washington, D.C. — Technological advancements continue to shape the landscape of America’s public education system, prompting the introduction of new requirements to ensure equitable and meaningful access for all students. In June 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a new rule enhancing the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to remove technology-related accessibility barriers for the 7.5 million disabled students who attend U.S. public schools.
New analysis from the Center for American Progress explains how this federal rule will affect K-12 schools and how local policymakers and education leaders can ensure compliance with its provisions while prioritizing digital accessibility. The author offers school districts a four-phase road map for successful implementation:
- Phase I: Conduct a digital accessibility needs assessment and develop a strategic plan for technology integration.
- Phase II: Complete an audit of digital tools and identify feasibility to achieve full accessibility.
- Phase III: Revise vendor agreements, evaluate existing policies, and explore new policies and guidance to prioritize digital accessibility.
- Phase IV: Cultivate partnerships; prioritize artificial intelligence accessibility; and provide training and resources for educators, students, and families.
“Technology can be a powerful driver of innovation,” said Weadé James, senior director for K-12 Education Policy at CAP and author of the column. “When it comes to the public education system, lawmakers and industry leaders should continue to advance policies that use technology to enhance human interactions and experiences for all students—particularly students with disabilities.”
This column is the final installment in a three-part CAP series focused on policy recommendations for enhanced use of technology in K-12 public schools.
Read the column: “Ensuring Digital Accessibility in K-12 Schools in a Technology-Driven Era” by Weadé James
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For more information on this topic or to speak with an expert, contact Mishka Espey at [email protected].