A free resource to help teach accessibility and inclusion in the classroom
December 3, 2025
TRADITIONAL TERRITORY OF THE HURON-WENDAT, THE SENECA, AND THE MISSISSAUGAS OF THE CREDIT / TORONTO, ON., — To mark the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities, CNIB and the Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) have launched a free resource to help teachers introduce accessibility and inclusion concepts to primary-grade students.
Aligned with commonly identified provincial and territorial educational priorities, Classroom Accessibility Allies is packed with hands-on activities, from a simple accessibility checklist to a student worksheet and action plan, designed to guide students through a structured, process of identifying, addressing and reflecting on barriers to accessibility.
From adjusting seating layouts and improving signage to rethinking how activities are presented, Classroom Accessibility Allies makes accessibility approachable, showing students how even small changes, like adding tactile labels, improving contrast, or rethinking group work, can make a big difference.
“Rick Hansen has always believed in the power of youth to change the world,” said Laura McBride, Sr. Director Awareness at the Rick Hansen Foundation. “Twenty percent of youth in Canada have a disability whether it be mobility, vision, hearing, cognitive or neurodiversity related, and this rate continues to grow. With the combined expertise of RHF and CNIB, this resource provides practical ways to empower teachers and students to identify and remove barriers to ensure people of all abilities are welcomed in schools and classrooms across the country.”
Blending education with empathy, Classroom Accessibility Allies is an easy-to-use resource that equips educators with the tools they need to kickstart important conversations about accessibility and inclusion, while also connecting these ideas to cross-curricular competencies and the broader community.
“When children learn to think about accessibility early, they develop a mindset that lasts a lifetime. They begin asking questions like, ‘Who might be left out? How can we make this better for everyone? What barriers might someone face that I don’t see?’ Those are powerful lessons that go far beyond the classroom,” said Larissa Proctor, Executive Director, CNIB Advocacy. “The students of today will grow up to be architects, policymakers, educators, and employers, shaping the world of tomorrow. When we teach them that accessibility and inclusion are shared responsibilities, it sets the stage for lasting change across communities and generations.”
Classroom Accessibility Allies is free to use and cassrooms that complete the reflection activity can also receive a certificate recognizing them as official Accessibility Allies.
(La version française de la ressource La brigade de l’accessibilité en classe et de la page d’accueil sera bientôt affichée. Restez à l’affût!)
This new resource is made possible thanks to a historic gift from The Slaight Family Foundation to 11 organizations supporting people with disabilities across Canada including CNIB and RHF.
Start building a more inclusive classroom today. Download the free resource and become a classroom accessibility ally.
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About CNIB
Founded in 1918, CNIB is a non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today. We deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion. Our work is powered by a network of volunteers, donors, and partners from coast to coast to coast. To learn more or get involved, visit cnib.ca.
About Rick Hansen Foundation
The Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) was established in 1988, following the completion of Rick Hansen’s Man In Motion World Tour 40 years ago. RHF works to raise awareness, change attitudes, and remove barriers for people with disabilities. The RHF School Program strives to inspire the next generation of accessibility and inclusion champions through no charge resources, Ambassador presentations, educator professional development, Difference Maker of the Year Awards, as well as scholarships for youth with disabilities. Visit RickHansen.com/Schools to learn more.
About International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a United Nations sanctioned day celebrated annually on December 3. For more information, visit the UN’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities website.
Media contacts:
CNIB
Karin McArthur, Manager, Marketing and Communications, CNIB
Karin.McArthur@cnib.ca | 437-922-7353
Rick Hansen Foundation
Cynnamon Schreinert, Hartley PR
Cynnamon@hartleypr.com | 604-802-2733