Accessibility Statement
At Light Stars Nursery School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, play, and grow in an environment that celebrates diversity and meets their unique needs.
1. Our Commitment to Accessibility
Light Stars Nursery School is committed to providing an inclusive, accessible learning environment for all children, regardless of physical, cognitive, or learning differences. We strive to remove barriers to learning and participation in accordance with relevant Rwandan accessibility laws and international best practices.
Inclusive Education for All
Every child has potential. Every child deserves respect. Every child belongs. Every child can learn.
2. Physical Accessibility Features
Our school facilities are designed with accessibility in mind to ensure all children and families can navigate our campus safely and independently.
♿Building Accessibility
- • Wheelchair-accessible entrances and exits
- • Wide hallways and doorways (36" minimum)
- • Accessible restrooms with grab bars and changing tables
- • Ramp access to all outdoor play areas
- • Elevators in multi-story buildings (where applicable)
🎯Outdoor Play Areas
- • Accessible playground equipment meeting ADA standards
- • Paved paths connecting all play areas
- • Sensory-friendly outdoor spaces
- • Shade structures for sun-sensitive children
- • Accessible sand and water play areas
3. Educational Accommodations
We provide individualized support and accommodations to ensure every child can participate fully in our educational program.
Learning Support
- • Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
- • Small group instruction
- • Adapted curriculum materials
- • Assistive technology tools
Communication Support
- • Augmentative communication devices
- • Sign language interpreters
- • Visual schedules and supports
- • Alternative communication methods
Personal Support
- • Personal care assistance
- • Medical support services
- • Behavioral support plans
- • Individualized health care plans
4. Sensory and Environmental Considerations
We recognize that children have different sensory needs and preferences. Our environment is designed to be flexible and accommodating.
Sensory-Friendly Features:
Quiet Areas
- • Designated calm-down spaces
- • Sound-absorbing materials
- • Individual workspaces with dividers
- • Break areas for sensory regulation
Sensory Integration
- • Movement breaks and sensory activities
- • Fidget tools and sensory toys
- • Weighted blankets and body supports
- • Aromatherapy and calming scents
5. Technology Accessibility
We leverage technology to enhance accessibility and learning opportunities for all children.
Assistive Technology
- • Adaptive switches and interfaces
- • Voice-activated devices
- • Screen readers and magnifiers
- • Alternative keyboards and mice
- • Eye-tracking systems
Educational Software
- • Interactive learning apps
- • Speech-to-text programs
- • Visual learning tools
- • Virtual communication aids
- • Adaptive gaming software
6. Emergency and Medical Support
Our emergency preparedness and medical support systems are designed to ensure quick and appropriate responses to all health and safety situations.
Medical Emergencies
- • Trained first responders on staff
- • Emergency medication administration
- • Ambulance access protocols
- • Parent notification procedures
Allergic Reactions
- • Epinephrine auto-injector access
- • Allergy management plans
- • Kitchen allergen protocols
- • Emergency evacuation plans
Accessibility Alerts
- • Visual and auditory alerts
- • Tactile notification systems
- • Accessible emergency information
- • Alternative communication methods
7. Professional Development
Our staff receives ongoing training to better serve children with diverse needs and ensure we remain current with best practices in inclusive education.
Annual Training Includes:
- • ✅ Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles
- • ✅ Assistive technology training
- • ✅ Trauma-informed care approaches
- • ✅ Cultural competence and diversity
- • ✅ Behavioral support strategies
- • ✅ Sign language and communication methods
- • ✅ Sensory processing and integration
- • ✅ Positive behavior intervention
- • ✅ Individualized Education Program (IEP) development
- • ✅ Emergency response for diverse needs
8. Parent and Community Partnerships
We believe that successful inclusion requires collaboration with families and community partners. Parents are essential partners in supporting their child's inclusion and success.
Family Support Services
- • Parent-teacher conferences for accommodation planning
- • Workshops on supporting children at home
- • Resource referrals for additional services
- • Translation services for diverse families
- • Flexible communication options (in-person, virtual, written)
Community Partnerships
- • Collaboration with local disability support organizations
- • Access to occupational therapy services
- • Speech and language therapy referrals
- • Specialized medical and developmental assessments
- • Transition planning for ongoing education
9. Website Accessibility
Our website is designed to be accessible to all users, following WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines and best practices for digital accessibility.
Web Accessibility Features:
- • High contrast color schemes
- • Keyboard navigation support
- • Screen reader compatibility
- • Alt text for all images
- • Resizable text options
- • Clear heading structure
- • Focus indicators for interactive elements
- • Skip links for navigation
- • Accessible forms and buttons
- • Mobile-responsive design
10. How to Request Accommodations
If your child has specific needs or you require accommodations, please contact us. We'll work together to ensure your child can thrive in our inclusive environment.
Initial Contact
Call our office or schedule a tour to discuss your child's needs.
We'll explain our processes and answer your questions.
Assessment & Planning
Together, we'll develop an Individualized Support Plan tailored to your child.
This may include evaluations and professional consultations.
11. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
We continuously evaluate and improve our accessibility services based on feedback from families, staff, and accessibility experts. Your input helps us better serve all children and families.
Anonymous Feedback
You can provide anonymous feedback about our accessibility services by contacting our administration office or using the suggestion box in our main entrance.
12. Contact Information
Accessibility Coordinator
Sarah Mushimiyimana
Contact Details
Phone: +250 788 794 371
Email: info@lightstars.rw
Location: Light Stars Nursery School, Rulindo
Resources Available
• Accessibility assessment forms
• Resource library and materials
• Parent support group information
• Local disability support referrals
Every child matters. Every child belongs. Every child can learn and grow in our inclusive community.