"We belong here."
This statement serves as the focal point for the student journey pillar in our 2023-2028 strategic plan, but what does it mean for students with disabilities?
In 2022 the Accessible BC Act came into effect with a goal of making institutions across the province accessible to every British Columbian. At Northern Lights College we had already started work on updating our Accessibility Policy, but this new act spurred the creation of an Accessibility Committee and a new way of approaching accessibility for our students.
For a student, accessibility could mean anything from physical access to the building itself, to alternate versions of course materials, distraction-reduced test environments, extra breaks during exams, text to speech software, just to name a few. The needs are as diverse as our student body and we are working hard to meet those needs.
This is where our Accessibility Committee comes in.
The Accessibility Committee is made up of our staff, faculty, students, and leadership. The committee must reflect the diversity of British Columbians and include people with disabilities. Its mandate is:
- To identify barriers that impact full participation of employees and students with disabilities and challenges in life at Northern Lights College and to implement strategies to remove these barriers.
- Provide information sharing about accessibility related to accessible spaces, classroom materials, delivery methods, etc.
The committee has been meeting monthly and they have already sent out a survey to the entire college community - the first part in creating our Accessibility Plan which will help inform priorities and goals when growing accessibility at NLC. The committee has also, in partnership with our facilities department, coordinated the renovation of a washroom on the Fort St John campus to make it accessible.
"NLC ensures that all students with disabilities can have the opportunity to thrive," said Anndra Graff, VP of Finance and Corporate services at NLC, as well as a committee member.
"In our college, we're not just removing physical barriers; we're opening doors to knowledge, inclusion, and empowerment for all. The plan will ensure continued commitment to our students and ensure we are getting their feedback and making improvements in the right areas."
Karen Mason Bennet, one of the co-chairs of the committee, is also the manager of our invigilation department. Invigilation works very closely with Access Services and students with access needs. If a student requires an accommodation during an exam, our invigilators are responsible for making sure their needs are met.
"The beauty of it, is everyone is different. As our student population diversifies, so do their needs, and I am seeing the college being proactive when it comes to exceptionalities If we want this to be a place where everyone is truly welcome, we have to adapt, and I am seeing that."
Karma Anderson, Access Services Coordinator
"Our invigilators are amazing at providing accessible and supportive exam experiences for students that respond to their individual needs. We know exams can be nerve wracking for students, especially if you are facing additional barriers. Our invigilation team takes pride in supporting our students so they can showcase their abilities and achieve their fullest potential."
A sentiment that Access Services Coordinator Karma Anderson also shares.
"Invigilation has been truly awesome every time I have worked with them."
Karma works closely with students, staff, and faculty to put supports in place, ensuring education equity for our students. She sees the work that is happening with this committee and is excited about the future here at the college.
"The beauty of it, is everyone is different. As our student population diversifies, so do their needs, and I am seeing the college being proactive when it comes to exceptionalities If we want this to be a place where everyone is truly welcome, we have to adapt, and I am seeing that."
What are the next steps for making sure all our students can say they belong here? First is the accessibility landing page on our website where students, staff, and community members can find links and information for all things accessibility at NLC. There will also be an option to provide feedback if you find gaps in accessibility.
You can also keep an eye on your inbox for Accessibility InfoBytes, an awareness campaign from Access Services, that will provide bite-sized information and awareness pieces on disabilities, accommodations, awareness events, and more.
To get involved or find out more, visit nlc.bc.ca/accessibility.
