Ensuring Equal Access to Information and Services
What is Digital Accessibility?
Digital accessibility means designing websites, documents, and online content so that all users, including individuals with disabilities, can access and interact with information effectively.
This includes individuals who rely on screen readers, keyboard navigation, magnification tools, captions, and other assistive technologies. When content is accessible, it is clear, structured, and usable by everyone, regardless of ability.
Why Accessibility Matters
At MCCB, accessibility is both a legal requirement and a fundamental part of providing equitable access to information and services.
Accessible content helps ensure that:
- All users can access and understand information
- Students are supported across all learning environments
- content is easier to navigate and use for everyone
But more importantly, accessibility prevents barriers before they occur.
Legal and Compliance Framework
MCCB’s digital accessibility efforts are guided by established federal requirements and standards.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)), Title II requires public entities to provide equal access to programs, services, and activities.
- Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires that electronic and information technology be accessible.
- The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA provide the technical standard used to measure accessibility.
MCCB uses WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the benchmark for evaluating digital accessibility.
Shared Responsibility
Ensuring digital accessibility is a shared responsibility across MCCB.
All staff who create digital content are responsible for developing materials that meet accessibility standards. Accessibility is an expected part of content creation across webpages, documents, presentations, spreadsheets, and other digital materials.
Creating Accessible Content
MCCB provides guidance, tools, and training to support staff in the development of accessible digital content.
Resources are available for creating accessible:
- Word documents
- PowerPoint presentations
- Excel spreadsheets
- Portable Document Format (PDF) files
These resources include best practices, common issues to avoid, accessibility checkers, and step-by-step guidance.
Content Creation and Publishing Standards
MCCB follows a structured content creation and review process to ensure accessibility, clarity, and consistency prior to publication.
Content submitted for publication is reviewed, and materials that do not meet standards are returned for revision. External documents are linked rather than uploaded and include an accessibility disclaimer.
For more information about roles, responsibilities, and the full publishing workflow, please refer to the Digital Content Governance page.