Frequently Asked Questions

“Do I really have to do all of this?”

Yes. Federal law (Section 504 and the ADA) requires all digital content from public schools to be accessible to people with disabilities. These rules are being enforced more strictly now, and districts across the country are receiving complaints and even legal action.

But even beyond legal requirements, this is about inclusion. Accessible content makes sure everyone—students, staff, and families—can participate fully.

 

"What is digital accessibility?"

Digital accessibility means creating content and tools that everyone can use—especially people with disabilities. This includes students, families, staff, and community members who use assistive technologies like screen readers, voice controls, or keyboard-only navigation.

 

"Who benefits from accessible content?"

• Everyone. While accessibility is essential for people with disabilities, it also helps:
• English language learners
• People using mobile devices
• People in low-bandwidth environments
• Older adults
• Anyone trying to focus or learn in a busy or stressful setting

 

"What’s the difference between accessibility and accommodations?"

• Accessibility is proactive—it’s built into your content from the start.
• Accommodations are reactive—specific changes for individual students.

Accessibility reduces the need for individual accommodations by creating inclusive content for all.

 

“Where do I start if I’m new to this?”

Start small:

• Use proper headings in Google Docs.
• Don’t post image-only flyers or PDFs.
• Write clear, plain language.
• Add alt text to images.
• Make sure videos are captioned.

As you build habits, it will become second nature—and you'll be creating more useful, readable content for everyone.

 

“Can I just post a flyer/PDF and say ‘let us know if you need help’?”

No. This puts the burden on the person with a disability to request access, which is not compliant with the law. Accessibility must be proactive, not optional or reactive.

 

"If a tool or platform says it’s accessible, do I still have to do anything?"

Yes. Just because a platform is accessible doesn’t mean your content is. You still need to:

• Use proper headings, alt text, and color contrast
• Caption videos
• Avoid using only color to convey meaning
• Write clearly and simply

Think of it like cooking: just because your kitchen is accessible doesn’t mean every dish you make will be.

 

"What is alt text, and when should I use it?"

Alt text (alternative text) is a short written description of an image that helps people who can’t see it understand its purpose. Add alt text to:

• Photos
• Icons
• Diagrams
• Charts and graphs (with longer explanations nearby, if needed)

Alt text should be concise, accurate, and purposeful. It should communicate why the image matters, not just what it shows.

 

"Why can’t I just make text bold and big instead of using headings?"

Because visual formatting isn’t enough. Proper headings:

• Create a structure screen readers can navigate
• Help everyone scan content more easily
• Are essential for accessibility and good design

Use the built-in heading styles (like Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.) in your document editor.

 

"Can I still use color in my documents and slides?"

Yes—but don’t rely on color alone to convey meaning. Pair color with:

• Text labels
• Symbols or asterisks
• Descriptive headings

Also, check that your color contrast is strong enough (you can use tools like the WebAIM contrast checker).

 

"Do I have to caption my videos?"

Yes. All videos used in instruction, communication, or public-facing materials should have accurate captions. This helps:

• Students who are Deaf or hard of hearing
• Students learning English
• Anyone watching in a noisy or quiet environment

If you're recording a video for instruction, many platforms can auto-caption—and you should always review and correct them.