Equal Access to Programs, Services, and Materials

COS is committed to providing full access to its academic programs, services, and resources. This includes ensuring that instructional materials and college-developed content are accessible in a variety of formats, including digital, audio, large print, and other alternative formats as needed.

Accessibility at COS is not limited to compliance—it is a core part of our mission to support student success and remove barriers to participation across all campus environments.

Access & Ability Center (AAC)

The Access & Ability Center (AAC) serves as the central hub for disability-related services and support at COS. The AAC works collaboratively with students, faculty, and staff to ensure equal access and provide appropriate accommodations.

Services and support include:

• Academic accommodations and support services
• Alternate media (digital textbooks, audio, Braille, etc.)
• Assistive technology and equipment loans
• Testing accommodations (extended time, distraction-reduced environments, reader/writer services)
• Real-time captioning and note-taking assistance

The AAC’s mission is to create a supportive, engaging, and barrier-free college experience, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Digital Accessibility (Web & Technology)

COS is actively working to ensure that its digital presence is accessible and aligned with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards and Section 508 requirements.

Website Accessibility

• Use of AI-assisted tools to enhance accessibility on web pages in real time
• Implementation of accessibility-focused CMS tools​
  
• Ongoing monitoring and manual testing of web content
  
• Consistent design and navigation standards to support usability and accessibility

Content & Media Accessibility

• Closed captioning provided for video content
• Accessible document practices for web and instructional materials
• Ongoing efforts to improve accessibility of PDFs and non-HTML content

Continuous Improvement

COS recognizes that accessibility is an ongoing process. We continuously evaluate our systems, tools, and content to identify and address accessibility barriers and improve the user experience for all.

Physical Accessibility

COS is committed to providing accessible facilities and physical environments across all campuses. This includes accessible classrooms, pathways, parking, and campus services to ensure individuals with disabilities can fully participate in campus life.

Policies, Compliance, and Oversight

COS maintains policies and procedures to ensure compliance with:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
• Title VI, Title IX, and other applicable nondiscrimination laws

Report an Accessibility Concern

COS is committed to promptly addressing accessibility concerns.

General Accessibility Concerns

For issues related to website accessibility, facilities, programs, or services, please contact:

• John Bratsch, Dean, Human Resources/Legal Affairs
  
• Phone: (559) 730-3700​
  
• Email: johnbr@cos.edu
  

Student Accommodations & Access Needs

For students requesting accommodations or support services, please contact:

• Lyndsi Litten, Director, Access & Ability Center
• Access & Ability Center (AAC)
• Phone: (559) 730-3805
• Email: AAC@cos.edu
  

Ongoing Commitment

Accessibility at COS is a shared responsibility. Through a combination of technology, services, policies, and continuous improvement, we strive to ensure that all members of our community can fully access and benefit from everything COS has to offer.