VI Accessibility

This page serves as a reference for making schools and other public spaces accessible to people who have visual impairments including blindness, low vision, and Cortical Visual Impairment.

*Note that Washtenaw ISD does not specifically endorse any of the vendors linked below. The links are for informational purposes only. 

Generally speaking, signage should be clear, high contrast, uncluttered and placed at eye-level and within reach by everyone. Room numbers should be accompanied by a room title when possible and grade 2 braille should exactly match the print.

Room Signs / Numbers

  • Room numbers should follow a logical format (floor 1 are 100-level and increase along the length of a hallway; even on one side and odd on the other).
  • Provide clear signage in large, high contrast, raised type.
  • Grade 2 braille should exactly match the print.
  • See ADA Signage Requirements for more specifics on dimensions and placement specifications.
  • Room Signs Example*

Informational Signage

  • Provide clear signage in large, high contrast type.
  • Keep the location consistent and as close to eye level as possible.
  • Use braille on signs when possible.

Fire alarm cover

Tile Stairs

  • Stair treads (stick on the top of the step) one on the top step and bottom step of each stair section.
  • Also mark the beginnings / ends of railings to draw visual attention to them.
  • High Contrast Tile Stair Example Link*

Carpet Stairs

Paint curbs yellow and outside steps

(paint on the top of the step)

  • Curbs near entrances or other high-traffic areas should be painted yellow to highlight a sudden level change.

Film Coverings for Windows 

Door Mullion Highlighting

Labeling Appliances / Workspaces

  • Appliances and other devices in schools and workspaces are often inaccessible as-is and may require braille and/or large-print labels.

    

Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) is an impairment which relates to how affected people perceive and process visual information. Simple modifications can work for many people affected by CVI.

  • Add bright, high contrast labels to things such as coat hooks, lockers, and stairs.
  • Reduce the visual business of work areas
  • CVI Resource Link*

Best practice is to provide a tactile version of floor maps for wayfinding and emergency use. 

  • 3D Printing from blueprints can be done by professional companies or savvy teachers and students.
  • Low-tech versions can be made by anyone using crafting materials.
  • Label everything clearly in braille and large print. Use a key to explain symbols.

 

ADA & Accessibility

Our School Strives To Ensure Our Website Is Accessible To All Our Visitors 

Washtenaw ISD is committed to providing a website that is fully accessible and we are currently in the process of developing a new website to better meet the needs of our customers. Our new website will include improvements to ADA compliance and accessibility, and during this transition, we remain committed to maintaining our existing website's accessibility and usability. 

ADA Compliance

Non Discrimination

It is the policy and commitment of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any legally protected characteristic, in its educational programs, activities, admissions, or employment policies in accordance with Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, executive order 11246 as amended, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and all other pertinent state and Federal regulations.

Non Discrimination Information

ADA and Title IX CoordinatorADA and Title IX Coordinator
Brian Marcel
Associate Superintendent
1819 S. Wagner Road 
Ann Arbor, MI  48103
(734) 994-8100 ext. 1402
Cassandra Harmon-Higgins
Executive Director, HR & Legal Services
1819 S. Wagner Road 
Ann Arbor, MI  48103
(734) 994-8100 ext. 1311