By: Matt Weigarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The Lambton Kent District School Board has released its updated Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, Every Door Open: A Plan for Accessible and Equitable Learning and Working Environments, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive, barrier-free schools and workplaces.
The plan outlines the board’s ongoing efforts to ensure all students, staff, families and visitors experience fully accessible, equitable and inclusive environments across school and administrative sites. Grounded in the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity, Every Door Open reflects LKDSB’s dedication to meeting and exceeding Ontario’s accessibility requirements under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, the Ontario Human Rights Code and related legislation.
The document charts improvements made over the past three years and identifies strategies for 2026 to 2029. Director of Education Gary Girardi said while significant progress has been made, accessibility work is continuous and evolving.
“We are deeply committed to moving forward with transparency, purpose and accountability,” Girardi said. “Every Door Open is an important guide that helps us stay focused on creating safe, inclusive and barrier-free spaces for every individual who learns, works and visits our schools. This responsibility is integral to who we are as a public school board.”
Between 2022 and 2025, the board advanced numerous accessibility improvements, including audits and upgrades to sidewalks, entryways and washrooms, expanded design features such as elevators and ALLP room upgrades, and safer building access. Inclusive practices were strengthened in student transitions, excursions, employment procedures, customer service and communication standards. Transportation protocols were updated to better support student safety and accessibility, and consistent AODA and human rights training was provided for all employees.
Looking ahead, the updated plan outlines actions to strengthen accessibility across all areas of operations. These include maintaining WCAG 2.1 AA compliance for digital platforms and communication tools, enhancing inclusive employment practices and accommodations, ensuring renovations, new school builds, public spaces and playgrounds meet or exceed accessibility standards, expanding accessible transportation supports and individualized student plans, and strengthening policies, procedures and professional learning to continue removing barriers.
Accessibility remains a shared responsibility across LKDSB. Staff, students, families and community partners continue to shape this work through consultation, feedback and lived experience. Every Door Open will guide the board’s efforts and will be monitored and updated regularly to support meaningful, ongoing progress.
“Ensuring accessibility is not a single initiative — it is a commitment embedded in every decision we make, every space we enhance and every interaction within our system,” Girardi said. “We want all members of our community to feel welcome, supported and valued when they walk through our doors.”
More information, including the full document, is available at www.lkdsb.net/access
