Powering Access Through Systemic Action – Webinar 1 of 6: Overview & Foundation
Overview
This first session in the Powering Access Through Systemic Action series sets the foundation for understanding accessibility as a system-wide responsibility. Presenters will highlight the rationale behind accessibility, connecting policy, practice, and the lived experiences of students with disabilities. The webinar sets the stage for the six-session series, guiding individuals or teams to reflect on current practices, identify key partners, and begin conversations that prepare them for the next steps in the series.
Explore the Full Webinar Series
Facilitators
- Cynthia Curry, Project Director
- Jena Fahlbush, Technical Assistance Specialist
- Kristen Perez-Rickels, Technical Assistance Specialist
- Rob Carr, Digital Accessibility Specialist
- Christopher Phillips, Technical Assistance Specialist
- Dr. Natalie Shaheen, Researcher & Teacher Educator, Illinois State University
Recording & Slides
Resources
Calls to Action
Use one of the conversation starters and/or the draft email provided to spark a dialogue with a colleague or administrator about digital accessibility. Reflect on the gaps and opportunities that result from the exchange.
Conversation Starters
Use these prompts to guide a short, informal conversation with a peer, supervisor, or team member:
- “How do we currently ensure that all students with disabilities have access to digital learning materials?”
- “Who’s responsible for digital accessibility in our department or across our system?”
- “Have we ever assessed whether our current digital tools or materials are accessible to learners with disabilities?”
- “What policies or practices do we already have in place that relate to digital accessibility?”
- “Where do you think we have opportunities to improve access for students with disabilities?”
Draft Email for Starting the Conversation
Copy, paste, and personalize this message:
Subject: Quick Conversation About Digital Accessibility in Our [Agency/School]
Hi [Name],
As part of a professional learning series I’m participating in, I’m exploring how our agency approaches accessibility, especially how we ensure students with disabilities can access digital educational materials. For example, I’m learning about a new set of Quality Indicators that guide improvements in the accessibility of educational materials provided to students with and without disabilities.
I’d love to have a quick conversation with you to better understand what’s currently in place and where we might have opportunities to strengthen our practices. It can be as simple as a 15-minute chat sometime this week or next.
Let me know if you’re open to that. I’m looking forward to learning more from you!
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]