Policy Number: I-89
Last Reviewed: April 23, 2026
Responsible Dept.: Dean of Learning Resources and Online Learning and Vice President of Academic and Workforce Solutions
A signed copy of this policy is available in the President’s Office.
Purpose
Virginia Western Community College (Virginia Western) is committed to ensuring equitable access to digital content and services for all users, including individuals with disabilities. This policy establishes standards and responsibilities to create, maintain, and improve accessible digital environments.
Scope
This policy applies to all Virginia Western digital resources, including:
- Public websites and web applications
- Learning management systems and online courses
- Instructional materials (documents, presentations, video, multimedia)
- Enterprise and departmental software systems
- Third-party tools and platforms used for instruction or operations
Standards and Legal Compliance
Virginia Western will conform to:
- Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA
- Section 504 and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Code of Virginia § 2.2-3500 (HB 2541), requiring state agencies and institutions to ensure information technology is accessible to individuals with disabilities
Accessibility will be guided by the four WCAG principles:
- Perceivable
- Operable
- Understandable
- Robust
Responsibilities
- College Leadership: Provide strategic direction and allocate resources
- Information Technology: Ensure accessible infrastructure and technical compliance
- Faculty & Staff: Develop and maintain accessible instructional and digital content
- Procurement & Administration: Ensure accessibility is evaluated in all technology acquisitions
- Accessibility Coordinator (or designee): Lead training, guidance, and compliance efforts
Implementation
Virginia Western will:
- Integrate accessibility into design, development, and course creation processes
- Provide ongoing training and support for faculty and staff
- Use accessibility monitoring tools (e.g., SiteImprove or similar)
- Conduct periodic audits of digital content and systems
- Prioritize remediation based on impact, usage, and risk
Procurement Requirements
All digital products and services must:
- Provide a current Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) or equivalent
- Demonstrate alignment with WCAG 2.1 AA standards
- Be reviewed for accessibility prior to purchase or renewal
Reporting and Remediation
Virginia Western will maintain a clear process for reporting accessibility barriers. Reported issues will:
- Be acknowledged in a timely manner
- Be assessed and prioritized
- Include a defined plan for remediation
Continuous Improvement
Virginia Western recognizes that accessibility is an ongoing responsibility. The college will:
- Regularly review and update this policy
- Track compliance and remediation progress
- Incorporate feedback from users, including individuals with disabilities
Contact Us
540-857-VWCC (8922)
24/7 Student Support Center
855-874-6690
TTY: All users 711
Address:
3094 Colonial Ave., SW
Roanoke, VA 24015
VWCC Alerts
We use the VW Mass Notification System to immediately contact you during a major crisis or emergency. Get more info and register!