Schools may describe supports as “extra help” or a “nice-to-have,” but accommodations exist to eliminate barriers that prevent equitable access. They are essential—not supplemental.
Key takeaways
- Accommodations are part of equity
They do not enhance education; they allow a student to reach it. Without them, access is obstructed and opportunity is unequal. - The ramp must reach the door
Partial accommodations—or those that fail in practice—leave students stranded midway. A ramp halfway up the stairs is still a barrier. - Equity requires full removal of access barriers
When harm persists, the accommodation process remains incomplete. The standard is meaningful access, not proximity.
Learn more
Part 6: Duty to Accommodate – Pulling it all together
by Kim Block, Speaking Up BC
