Making the digital classroom welcoming for all: three ways to get started

Accessibility isn’t just about the documents and websites your staff create, it’s also about making sure every student can actually access grade-level content in the first place. That’s where the Iowa Department of Education’s Access for All initiative comes in, and Central Rivers AEA is here to help your district put it to work. Central Rivers AEA is offering practical programs this year:

• GrackleDocs Workspace & Office: A tool that plugs directly into Google or Microsoft programs to help staff format documents clearly while they work.
• Digital Accessibility Assessment: An expert review of a district’s current digital materials, providing a clear roadmap to make online communications accessible for everyone.
• Self-Paced Course: Accessibility for All: The Essentials of Title II Accessibility for Education is a one-hour course for K–12 educators, administrators and support staff. Every document, slide, image and video we create is a door, and this course shows participants how to make sure that door opens for every learner, family, and colleague they serve.
  • Cost: $29/participant
  • Link to register: https://training.aealearningonline.org/course-detail/TE10509999

Check out the AEA Statewide Grackle Flyer for full pricing details and package breakdowns or reach out to us today to get started. Reach out to Sarah Nelson, Executive Director of Technology & Media, for more information.

Remember that the state provides two powerful tools – uPAR and Read&Write – to all Iowa schools at no cost. Iowa schools can register for the uPAR protocol and apply for the free Read&Write licenses directly through the Iowa Department of Education’s Access for ALL portal.

Why this matters: Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires public education institutions, including school districts, to make all their programs, services, and digital resources fully accessible, ensuring students, parents, and community members with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities and communications. Visit their website to learn more about Title II.