This July, we celebrate more than our America 250 in the United States. We also celebrate the idea that every person deserves the opportunity to learn, work, and take part fully. That idea is reflected each year on July 26, the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Signed into law in 1990, the ADA is one of the most significant civil rights laws in our nation’s history. It transformed life for millions of people because it prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in several areas of life, including employment, transportation, public accommodations, communications, and access to state and local government programs and services. With one in four adults across the United States living with a disability, the celebration reminds us that accessibility is not just about removing barriers—it is about creating opportunities for everyone.
At NPRC, accessibility is woven into the student experience because we believe every student should have the opportunity to succeed. Supporting access is not simply meeting legal requirements. It reflects our commitment to putting students first. Through universal design principles, we strive to create learning experiences that are flexible, inclusive, and beneficial for all students.
Students may already experience accessibility without even realizing it. Recorded class sessions for later review, captioned videos, consistent course organization in the learning management system (D2L), progress checkpoints throughout the semester, clear grading rubrics, and readily available student support services all help create a learning environment where students can focus on learning instead of overcoming unnecessary obstacles. While these practices are especially valuable for students with disabilities, they often improve the learning experience for everyone.
For students who need additional support, NPRC’s Office of Disability Support Services (ODSS) coordinates reasonable academic accommodations for those with documented disabilities. Accommodations don’t change course expectations—they help ensure students have fair access to them. Because every student’s experience is unique, accommodations are individualized based on how a disability affects learning. Students begin the process by reaching out to ODSS, where they can expect to find a welcoming, confidential, and respectful conversation. Even students who are unsure whether they qualify are encouraged to ask questions and explore their options.
As we recognize the 36th birthday of the ADA (National Disability Independence Day), we also celebrate the progress made toward creating more accessible learning environments and recommit ourselves to work that continues. Accessibility is not a destination, but an ongoing commitment to ensuring every student can learn, participate, and achieve their goals. At NPRC, that commitment is part of who we are, and one way we continue putting students first every day.
To contact our Office of Disability Support Services (ODSS) and learn more about how NPRC can serve students in need, visit here.
NPRC acknowledges that the information contained in this content is complete and accurate at time of publication. It is descriptive in nature and the College reserves the right to make any adjustments it deems necessary or desirable. Updates to programs, tuition, or other academic-related items will be reflected in the online College Catalog or on the respective College web pages. Questions regarding accuracy of content may be emailed to marketing@nprc.edu.