In support of ongoing efforts to reduce barriers to participation, Selkirk College has formalized its dedication to accessibility with the release of the new Accessibility Commitment 2023–2025. This document outlines the foundational work the college will complete over the next several years to enhance accessibility for students, employees and members of the public.
Alongside this commitment, the college has opened a channel for members of the college community to provide feedback on any accessibility challenges they have faced at the college.
“Here at Selkirk College, our fundamental values are community, access, respect and excellence, and we strive to eliminate any barriers our community might face when it comes to learning and fully engaging in college life,” says Vice-President of College Services Kerry Clarke. “After experiencing a stroke, I had to learn to navigate unexpected aspects of my life in a different way.”
Advancing Accessibility through Collaboration
Barriers to access can take many forms, and the college is looking for feedback on any obstacles that interfere with full participation in the college community.
“Creating an inclusive environment means that we need understand the full breadth of barriers our community is experiencing,” says Director of Student Engagement & Wellness Marissa Carrasco. “This can range from challenges within the built environment, such as stairs and signage, to the online environment and more.”
There are numerous ways to share feedback with the college, including through online or paper forms, by phone or via email.
Join the Conversation: Disability and Access
An upcoming conversation series will delve into a cross-section of topics related to disability and access. Students, employees and community members with lived experience with accessibility and disability as well as those interested in social justice and equity, diversity and inclusion are invited to explore topics ranging from ableism to neurodiversity in post-secondary.
The first event, on October 26, is Language: Person First, Condition First and Beyond. The series is on select Thursdays at The Pit in the Castlegar Campus until April 11, 2024.
Read the Accessibility Commitment 2023–2025 and find out how to share your feedback on accessibility.