GUELPH – The accessibility standards policy at the Upper Grand District School board has been updated and released for public feedback.
The policy aims to prevent and remove barriers for people with disabilities.
The board will be collecting public feedback until Feb. 14.
Updates to the policy include:
- a revised policy statement with the board’s commitment to removing barriers to accessibility, fostering equity and inclusivity, which aims to exceed accessibility standards beyond the minimum legal requirements;
- a definitions section with a shift to proactive, equity-centred language;
- an updated responsibilities section that aligns with regulations and work from the board’s human rights, equity and accessibility office and outlines various responsibilities to support accessibility;
- a details section that outlines the accessibility committee’s work and ongoing board practices that integrate accessibility considerations;
- accessibility training requirements that support continuous learning;
- updated, clearer customer service standards with an enhanced public feedback process to address concerns and improve implementation;
- updated standards and practices relating to information and communications of board documents;
- board employment practices that incorporate accessibility, including accommodations for employees and applicants;
- the expansion of accessibility considerations to all new building projects and renovation activities, including outdoor spaces; and
- transportation accessibility standards.
The draft policy and a survey about the draft are posted at uppergranddsbon.sites.thrillshare.ca/o/ugdsb/page/policy-214-accessibility-standards.
The board is set to consider the revised policy for approval in March or April, after public feedback is received.