Rockingham County Schools is taking significant steps to enhance website accessibility in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). During the October 28, 2024, Board of Education meeting, officials reported an average of 56.8 errors per page on their websites, highlighting the need for urgent improvements.
Key issues identified include missing alternative text for images, low contrast text, ambiguous link text, and improper heading structures. These elements are crucial for ensuring that all users, including those with disabilities, can effectively navigate and understand the content on the district's websites.
To address these challenges, the district is implementing a comprehensive plan that includes training for webmasters and staff on ADA compliance. This training focuses on creating accessible content, such as using descriptive link text and ensuring that images convey meaningful information. For instance, instead of labeling an image as "decorative," it should clearly state what the image represents, like "Dillard Elementary."
The district is also working to ensure that videos include closed captioning, making them accessible to individuals with hearing impairments. Compliance with ADA standards is not just a legal obligation but a commitment to inclusivity for all students and community members.
Looking ahead, the district has set a compliance deadline of April 24, 2026, and is actively using online tools to identify and rectify errors on their websites. The efforts are part of a broader initiative to foster an inclusive educational environment, ensuring that all resources are accessible to every student and parent.
As Rockingham County Schools continues to enhance its digital accessibility, the community can expect a more inclusive online experience that meets the needs of all users.