Great Lakes Trade Academy

Accessibility

GREAT LAKES TRADE ACADEMY ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Effective Date: June 6, 2025
Last Updated: June 6, 2025

OUR COMMITMENT TO ACCESSIBILITY

Great Lakes Trade Academy, LLC is committed to ensuring equal access to education for all students, including those with disabilities. We strive to provide an inclusive learning environment that accommodates diverse learning needs and complies with applicable accessibility laws and standards.

We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue career training and professional development, regardless of ability. Our commitment extends to all aspects of our educational services, including our website, learning management system, virtual reality training environments, course materials, and student support services.

APPLICABLE STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS

Our accessibility efforts are guided by:

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Title III and applicable provisions

  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 – Prohibiting discrimination based on disability

  • Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA – International web accessibility standards

  • Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 151B – State accessibility and non-discrimination requirements

  • Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act – Federal accessibility standards for electronic content

ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES OF OUR SERVICES

Website Accessibility
You must be at least 18 years of age to enroll in our programs or use our Services.

  • Keyboard Navigation: All interactive elements are accessible via keyboard navigation

  • Screen Reader Compatibility: Content is structured for compatibility with assistive technologies

  • Alternative Text: Images include descriptive alt text for screen readers

  • Color Contrast: Text and background colors meet WCAG contrast ratio requirements

  • Resizable Text: Text can be enlarged up to 200% without loss of functionality

  • Consistent Navigation: Predictable navigation structure throughout the site

  • Focus Indicators: Clear visual indicators for keyboard focus

  • Descriptive Links: Link text clearly describes the destination or function

Learning Management System Accessibility
Our online learning platform provides:

  • Adjustable Interface: Customizable display settings for font size, contrast, and layout

  • Screen Reader Support: Structured content compatible with JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver

  • Keyboard Accessibility: Full platform functionality available via keyboard navigation

  • Closed Captioning: Video content includes accurate captions and transcripts

  • Alternative Formats: Course materials available in multiple formats upon request

  • Extended Time Options: Flexible timing for assessments and assignments

  • Progress Indicators: Clear visual and auditory indicators of course progress

  • Audio Descriptions: Descriptive audio for visual content where applicable

Virtual Reality Training Accessibility
Our VR training environments offer:

  • Desktop Alternatives: Computer-based simulations for students unable to use VR headsets

  • Adjustable Settings: Customizable VR settings for motion sensitivity and visual clarity

  • Audio Cues: Comprehensive audio feedback and instructions

  • Simplified Interactions: Alternative interaction methods for fine motor difficulties

  • Seated Experiences: VR sessions designed to accommodate wheelchair users

  • Visual Accommodations: High contrast modes and adjustable text size in VR environments

Course Content Accessibility
Our educational materials include:

  • Multiple Formats: Content available in text, audio, and visual formats

  • Clear Structure: Logical heading structure and organized content layout

  • Plain Language: Clear, concise language avoiding unnecessary jargon

  • Visual Descriptions: Detailed descriptions of diagrams, charts, and technical illustrations

  • Interactive Transcripts: Searchable transcripts for all audio and video content

  • Downloadable Resources: Offline access to course materials for assistive technology use

ACCOMMODATION SERVICES

Requesting Accommodations
Students who need accommodations should contact our Student Services Office:
Contact Information:

  • Email: info@greatlakestradeacademy.com

  • Phone:

  • Mail: 522 2nd Street Hudson, WI 54016

Documentation Requirements
To ensure appropriate accommodations, please provide:

  • Documentation from a licensed professional (physician, psychologist, etc.)

  • Specific recommendations for educational accommodations

  • Current functional limitations and their impact on learning

  • Any assistive technology currently used

Types of Accommodations Available
We provide reasonable accommodations including, but not limited to:
Assessment Accommodations:

  • Extended time for exams and assignments

  • Alternative testing formats

  • Separate testing environment

  • Use of assistive technology during assessments

  • Frequent breaks during lengthy exams

Course Material Accommodations:

  • Large print or electronic text versions

  • Audio recordings of written materials

  • Sign language interpretation for live sessions

  • Real-time captioning for video content

  • Braille materials when requested

Technology Accommodations:

  • Screen reader compatible course materials

  • Voice recognition software access

  • Alternative input devices

  • Magnification software

  • Color contrast adjustments

Learning Support Accommodations:

  • Note-taking assistance

  • Priority scheduling for virtual office hours

  • Additional tutoring sessions

  • Modified assignment formats

  • Flexible deadlines when appropriate

Accommodation Process

  • Initial Request: Submit accommodation request with supporting documentation

  • Review: Student Services reviews documentation within 10 business days

  • Meeting: Schedule meeting to discuss specific needs and appropriate accommodations

  • Implementation: Accommodations are implemented and communicated to relevant staff

  • Ongoing Support: Regular check-ins to ensure accommodations remain effective

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY COMPATIBILITY

Our platforms are designed to work with commonly used assistive technologies:
Screen Readers

  • JAWS (Job Access With Speech)

  • NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)

  • VoiceOver (macOS and iOS)

  • TalkBack (Android)

  • Dragon NaturallySpeaking

Browser Accessibility Tools

  • Built-in browser zoom and contrast features

  • Voice control and navigation

  • Custom CSS for personal display preferences

  • Browser extensions for accessibility enhancement

Mobile Accessibility

  • iOS and Android accessibility features

  • Voice commands and gesture controls

  • Text-to-speech and speech-to-text functionality

  • Haptic feedback for navigation

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESSIBILITY

Minimum System Requirements for Accessibility Features

  • Operating Systems: Windows 10+, macOS 11+, iOS 14+, Android 9+

  • Browsers: Latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge with accessibility features enabled

  • Internet Connection: Stable broadband connection for optimal performance of accessibility features

  • Hardware: Speakers or headphones for audio content, compatible assistive technology devices

Equipment Lending Program
For students who lack necessary assistive technology:

  • Loaner laptops with pre-installed accessibility software

  • Compatible headphones and audio equipment

  • Basic assistive technology devices when available

  • Technical support for setup and training

ONGOING ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS

Regular Assessments
We conduct regular accessibility reviews including:

  • Annual third-party accessibility audits

  • User testing with students who use assistive technology

  • Staff training on accessibility best practices

  • Platform updates to maintain compliance with evolving standards

Feedback Integration
We actively seek feedback to improve accessibility through:

  • Regular surveys of students using accommodations

  • Focus groups with disability services organizations

  • Collaboration with assistive technology vendors

  • Consultation with accessibility experts

Staff Training
Our team receives ongoing training on:

  • Disability awareness and etiquette

  • Creating accessible digital content

  • Using assistive technology

  • Implementing and managing accommodations

  • Legal requirements and best practices

ACCESSIBILITY CONTACT AND SUPPORT

Primary Accessibility Contact

Director of Student Services
Email: info@greatlakestradeacademy.com
Phone:
TTY: Available upon request

Technical Accessibility Support

IT Support Team
Email: info@greatlakestradeacademy.com
Phone:
Available: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET; Saturday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM ET

Emergency Accessibility Support
For urgent accessibility issues affecting your ability to participate in coursework:

  • Email: info@greatlakestradeacademy.com

  • Phone: (leave detailed message for priority callback)

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE FOR ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES

If you experience accessibility barriers or are unsatisfied with accommodation services:
Step 1: Direct Communication
Contact the Student Services Office to discuss concerns and seek immediate resolution.
Step 2: Formal Complaint

Submit a written complaint to info@greatlakestradeacademy.com including:

  • Description of the accessibility issue

  • Impact on your educational experience

  • Requested resolution

  • Any relevant documentation

Step 3: Administrative Review
The Director of Student Services will investigate and respond within 10 business days.
Step 4: Appeal Process
If unsatisfied with the resolution, appeal to the Managing Director within 5 business days at info@greatlakestradeacademy.com.
External Resources
You may also file complaints with:

U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
Boston Office
8th Floor
5 Post Office Square
Boston, MA 02109-3921
Phone: (617) 289-0111

Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
One Ashburton Place, Suite 601
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 994-6000

THIRD-PARTY ACCESSIBILITY

Partner Platform Accessibility
We work with third-party providers who maintain their own accessibility standards. While we cannot control their platforms, we:

  • Select partners with strong accessibility commitments

  • Advocate for accessibility improvements

  • Provide alternative access methods when possible

  • Offer additional support for platform-related accessibility issues

Certification Provider Accommodations
For industry certification exams administered by third parties:

  • We facilitate accommodation requests with testing providers

  • Provide documentation support for accommodation requests

  • Coordinate alternative testing arrangements when available

  • Offer additional preparation support for students using accommodations

FEEDBACK AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

We welcome feedback on our accessibility efforts. Please share:

  • Suggestions for accessibility improvements

  • Reports of accessibility barriers

  • Success stories with our accommodation services

  • Recommendations for new assistive technologies

Contact us:

  • Email: info@greatlakestradeacademy.com

  • Phone: (leave detailed message for priority callback)

COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Accessibility is an ongoing commitment. We pledge to:

  • Regularly update our accessibility practices

  • Stay current with evolving accessibility standards

  • Invest in new technologies that enhance accessibility

  • Maintain open dialogue with our disability community

  • Provide comprehensive training for all staff members

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Disability Services Organizations

  • Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission: www.mass.gov/mrc

  • National Federation of the Blind: www.nfb.org

  • Hearing Loss Association of America: www.hearingloss.org

  • Learning Disabilities Association: www.ldaamerica.org

Assistive Technology Resources

  • Massachusetts Assistive Technology Partnership: www.matp.org

  • National Institute on Deafness: www.nidcd.nih.gov

  • WebAIM (Web Accessibility in Mind): www.webaim.org

This Accessibility Statement reflects our current efforts and ongoing commitment to accessibility. We regularly review and update our practices to ensure continued compliance with accessibility standards and to serve our diverse student community effectively.

For the most current version of this statement, please visit: www.greatlakestradeacademy.com/accessibility

Last updated: June 6, 2025