The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) is committed to identifying, eliminating, and preventing barriers and biases to students, employees, parents/guardians and the public. The Board strives to continually improve access to DSBN schools, facilities, services, and programs by fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can participate fully. Policies, procedures, and practices are to be inclusive of persons with disabilities. Comments and input related to accessibility will be gathered through the Accessible Customer Service Feedback process on the DSBN website.
The DSBN is committed to meeting the accessibility needs of people with disabilities in a timely manner, in the provision of services related to information and communication.
Students, staff and public requests for accessible technology, resources, and documents will be provided through a variety of methods. DSBN websites and web content conform with web content accessibility guidelines. Assistive devices and technologies are provided to individuals with disabilities to facilitate their participation in school activities. If services normally provided to a person with a disability are temporarily disrupted notice will be given through an appropriate means of communication.
The DSBN is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace where all employees, including individuals with disabilities, have equal opportunities for employment and advancement. All aspects of the employment lifecycle including recruitment, hiring, training, performance management and career development are conducted in a timely manner that promotes accessibility and accommodates the diverse needs of employees. Following a request for accommodation, the DSBN will consult with the applicant and provide a reasonable accommodation.
The DSBN will provide an environment that fosters independence, dignity, and respect. The DSBN is committed to providing facilities that are free of physical barriers to our students, parents/guardians, the public and our staff. Ongoing work to achieve full accessibility is summarized in the District School Board of Niagara Accessibility Plan in compliance with legislation.
The DSBN ensures that accessible school transportation services are provided for students with disabilities in a manner that meets their unique needs and ensures their safety. Where appropriate and practicable, integrated accessible school transportation services will be provided.
The provision of accessible student transportation services will include the development of an individual school transportation plan for each student who has a disability that affects their transportation to and from school. The plan will be developed by the Board’s Special Education Support Services staff in collaboration with the Niagara Student Transportation Services and in consultation with the student’s parents/guardians and staff.
The DSBN will provide appropriate training to its employees who interact with the public or other third parties on behalf of the DSBN to ensure greater awareness and responsiveness to the needs of a person with disabilities. The DSBN will also provide educational or training resources or materials in an accessible format.
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA)
Integrated Accessibility Standards, Ontario Regulation 191/11
Ontario Human Rights Code
Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001