The SCDE is committed to making its electronic and information technologies accessible to individuals with disabilities by meeting or exceeding the requirements of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794d), as amended in 1998. Section 508 is a federal law that requires agencies to provide individuals with disabilities equal access to electronic information and data comparable to those who do not have disabilities, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the agency.

Accessible videos are available on the South Carolina Department of Education YouTube channel.

Requirements/ Legislative Mandate
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794d, requires agencies that receive federal funding to ensure all users, regardless of disability status, can access electronic information technology that it develops, procures, maintains, or uses, unless certain exceptions apply. This includes information provided through websites, presentations, emails, etc. When information technology is 508 compliant, it is accessible to all users and the ease of access is comparable to those who are not individuals with disabilities. This means the information is presented in a manner that is compatible with assistive technology, such as screen readers.

Section 508 standards address access for people with disabilities. The standards contain criteria to cover software applications and operating systems, web-based information and applications, computers, telecommunications products, video and multi-media, and self-contained closed products. In other words, if the electronic information is available and accessible to persons without a disability, it must also be made comparably accessible to persons with disabilities.