Accessibility Quarterly Report 03-31-2025

This report is a summary of progress made towards achieving digital accessibility by 27J Schools since the last quarterly report published 12/30/2024. As stipulated by HB24-1454, the purpose of this report is continued demonstration of good-faith efforts towards achieving accessibility for all prior to July 1, 2025.

Overview

Since the last report, all 27J district and school websites and subpages have been reviewed using manual tools and automated scanning software to identify specific instances of non-compliance with WCAG 2.1 level AA accessibility standards. Remediation is ongoing, with approximately 90% of content updated. Ongoing challenges include coordination with software contractors to improve and track accessibility updates and planning, conversion of complex pdfs to accessible formats, and standardization of content formats for common messaging.

Progress to Date

Since HB 21-1110 passed, 27J has taken specific steps to ensure web content is accessible to all users. Highlights since the last update (9/30/2024) include:

• Established and implemented schedule for working with district departments to mitigate existing inaccessible materials and initiate workflow to prevent dissemination of new inaccessible materials.
  1. Complete - IT, Health
  2. In Progress - Planning, HR, Learning Services/Curriculum
  3. Scheduled - Finance, Safety, About Us
• Updated purchase training for new and existing card users to address accessibility requirements and applicability; directing purchases to district purchasing managers and ensuring vendor compliance.
• Developed and distributed accessibility training required for all school and district web editors. Topics include accessibility principles, purpose, and practical instruction to prevent creation of inaccessible content and display practices.
• Continued usage of audit reporting software to catch accessibility issues created by content editors.
• Met with other Colorado school district leadership and IT to review Board Docs/Diligent Communities software and met with rep to encourage efforts towards accessibility features.

Next Steps

• Complete department intervention planning and establish accessible workflows to ensure continuation of best practices in accessible content creation.
• Add accommodations request process for required pdf accessibility (e.g., maps).
• Continue to advocate for acknowledgment of accessibility in 27J district policy.
• Pursuant to HB 24-1454, next report to be posted by 6/30/2025.

Conclusion

27J Schools is committed to addressing all accessibility shortcomings before July 1, 2025, and will post quarterly progress reports where the public may also comment.