Accessibility from the Start: Practical Steps for K–12 Schools

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, Andrew welcomes Cynthia Curry, Project Director, and Jena Fahlbush, Technical Assistance Specialist, from the National Center on Accessible Digital Educational Materials & Instruction, known as NCADEMI. Together, they unpack what digital accessibility means for K–12 schools and why this work is about much more than compliance. The conversation explores accessibility as a civil right, the relationship between ADA Title II and IDEA, and the importance of designing digital materials, websites, communications, and instructional resources to be accessible from the beginning rather than retrofitted later. Cynthia and Jena also explain the role of WCAG 2.1 Level AA, the POUR framework, and the practical first steps educators and school leaders can take to build accessibility into everyday practice. Listeners will hear examples that connect directly to school life, from websites and learning management systems to classroom documents, PDFs, social media posts, lunch menus, and instructional materials. The episode also highlights how accessibility benefits students, families, staff, and community members while helping schools create more inclusive and efficient systems. Resources Mentioned: NCADEMI Accessibility Basics: https://ncademi.org/create/basics/ NCADEMI ADA Title II Roadmap for SEAs and LEAs: https://ncademi.org/sustain/roadmap/ Nebraska Learning Network Accessibility Essentials Course: https://canvas.education.ne.gov/courses/accessibility-essentials