Accessibility
Accessibility means ensuring that we include all individuals. For students, this means access to the curriculum and being able to obtain materials at the same time as their peers. We hope this page helps you with this process.
Accessible Educational Materials (AEM)
Accessible Educational Materials (AEM) are those that can be used efficiently, effectively, and sustainably with technology and assistive technology (screen magnification, screen reader software, and switches, among others), and meet Web Content Accessibility Standards (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. Accessibility addresses discriminatory aspects related to equivalent user experience for people with disabilities. Web accessibility means that people with disabilities can equally perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with websites and tools. It also means that they can contribute equally, without barriers.
Legal requirements: Both state (COMAR) and federal laws and regulations require that educational materials and school-related technology be accessible.
How to Make Word Documents Accessible
There are some basic principles to making Word documents accessible that you can follow. The video provides a step-by-step process, and we've also created a cheat sheet for your easy reference.
Resources for accessible word documents
Web AIM: Color Contrast Checker
University of Washington: Creating Accessible Documents
Microsoft: Checking Document Accessibility (video)
How to Make PowerPoints Accessible
This presentation was done in collaboration with the Image Center Transition Help Desk.
Resources for creating accessible PowerPoints:
Still have some questions or need support with accessibility? If you are in Maryland, reach out to our FREE Transition Help Desk
Bridges Email helpdesk@imagemd.org
Voice mail: (443) 320-4003 [leave a detailed message and we will return your call]