Tip #3: The How – Templates
Tip #3: The How – Templates
Hello Team,
Welcome back to our Accessibility Tips & Tricks series!
So far, we’ve explored “The Why” (Law & Equity) and “The What” (taking inventory of our digital content). This week, we’re starting “The How.” Practical steps and tools to help make your materials accessible to everyone.
One of the easiest ways to create accessible materials is by starting with templates designed for accessibility. Whether you’re making a presentation, a flyer, or a digital handout, using a properly formatted template helps ensure you begin with accessibility in mind rather than trying to retrofit it later.
Why templates matter:
They use built-in heading structures so screen readers can navigate easily.
They include high-contrast color palettes and accessible font choices.
They encourage consistent, clear layouts that benefit all learners.
They save time with no need to “reinvent the wheel” each time you create something new.
We’ve added templates and examples for Google Slides, Docs, and other common tools at a11y.esu10.org/the-how. You’ll also find links to checklists and training videos to help your team adapt existing materials using the same principles.
Here’s how you can get started this week:
Download and try an accessible template from the Accessibility Hub.
Use it for your next presentation or newsletter.
Share your experience at your next team meeting: what worked well, and what you might change.
Join office hours if you’d like help customizing templates for your department’s needs. If these office hours don't fit your schedule, please contact someone on the Accessibility Team.
Next week, we’ll introduce the NCADEMI Accessibility Basics—a powerful resource that covers key accessibility principles and easy ways to apply them.
Thank you for continuing to make our digital spaces more inclusive—one step at a time.
ESU 10 Accessibility Implementation and Planning Team