Introduction
Accessibility is not just a checkbox-it’s a core value that reflects our commitment to access, usability, and belonging. The DOJ Title II regulations create both a mandate and an opportunity to reimagine our digital ecosystem as one that includes every student, faculty, and staff member. The compliance deadline for these changes is April 2026. While grounded in the UDL approach, it’s important to note that these new regulations impact every aspect of our work, from public facing websites and enrollment work through teaching and learning, through email exchanges that utilize PDFs or link to forms.
Background
In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) finalized new regulations under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), strengthening digital accessibility requirements for state and local governments, including public colleges and universities. These updated rules clarify that all web content, mobile apps, and digital services used by students, employees, and the public must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. The standard for compliance is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. Institutions must ensure that content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust-whether created internally, purchased through a vendor, or hosted on third-party platforms. The deadline for compliance is April 24, 2026.
The new rule applies broadly to instructional content (e.g., course materials, learning management systems, videos), student services (e.g., registration, advising, orientation, student information systems), administrative tools (e.g., HR portals, procurement systems), and public-facing websites. While the DOJ recognizes limited exceptions-such as archived content not needed for current use or third-party content not under the college’s control-these are narrowly defined and must be documented. Institutions are expected to remediate inaccessible materials and maintain a continuous commitment to accessibility through training, policy, monitoring, and procurement practices.
Tools and Resources
The OLIT office has created an InfoGuide about digital accessibility, available tools, and how to prepare your course content to meet the requirements:
- Accessibility Training Sessions (via Zoom)
- Digital Accessibility InfoGuide
- UDOIT Advantage: Accessibility Assistant for Canvas
- Digital Accessibility in Administrative Units
- Office of Disability Services Home
- How to Apply
- Accommodations & Services
- Student Rights & Responsibilities
- Accommodation Access Plans
- Disability Services Forms
- Filing a Grievance
- Regional Academy & Dual Enrollment Students
- For Parents & Supporters
- Campus Resources
- Community & Online Resources
- Digital Accessibility Project
Contact Us
Hillary Holland, LPC
Disability Counselor/ADA Coordinator
hholland@virginiawestern.edu
540-857-6488
Chris Porter, MS
Dean of Learning Resources & Online Learning
Brown Library B105
cporter@virginiawestern.edu
540-857-6697