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Accessibility at Pierce College

Contact Us

Sean Cooke
ADA/Section 504 Coordinator
 SCooke@pierce.ctc.edu
 253-840-8472

Accessibility at Pierce College

Learn about disability rights, how to request or implement accommodations, and where to find support.
student with back to camera holding pierce college pennant

Student Accommodations

Students with disabilities who seek academic accommodations should visit Access and Disability Services (ADS).

Services include:

  • Academic accommodations
  • Auxiliary aids and services
  • Confidential support and guidance through the interactive process

College Transition Plan

Pierce College is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible physical environment for all students, employees, and visitors. Accessibility is more than compliance; it is a reflection of our values and our dedication to equity.

We are currently in the process of updating and editing our College Transition Plan, which will be made available on this page once finalized. The Transition Plan is a critical tool used to assess the accessibility of our physical spaces and to prioritize improvements across all college sites.

What is a Transition Plan?

A Transition Plan is a document required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II. It identifies physical barriers in programs, services, and activities that prevent access for people with disabilities. The plan also outlines a strategy for removing those barriers over time.

The key components of a transition plan typically include:

  • A survey of existing facilities to identify physical barriers
  • A detailed description of methods to be used to remove these barriers
  • A schedule for taking steps to make the facilities accessible
  • The name of the official responsible for implementation

Why This Matters at Pierce

Updating our transition plan is part of Pierce College’s ongoing commitment to:

  • Ensuring equitable access to all buildings, classrooms, labs, and restrooms
  • Creating safe and welcoming environments for people with mobility, sensory, and other access needs
  • Engaging students and employees with disabilities in shaping accessibility improvements
  • Holding ourselves accountable to ADA Title II requirements and institutional equity goals

We believe that accessibility is everyone’s responsibility. As we update our Transition Plan, we invite feedback and collaboration from the campus community.

If you have questions, notice barriers on campus, or would like to provide input, please contact Sean Cooke.

ADA and Section 504

Pierce College is committed to providing equal access to education and programs for students with disabilities in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Washington State law.

What are the ADA and Section 504?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities. These laws ensure that qualified individuals have equal access to programs, services, and activities at institutions like Pierce College.

ADA

The ADA protects individuals with disabilities in employment, state and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications.

Section 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act applies to entities receiving federal financial assistance and ensures that students with disabilities receive appropriate academic adjustments and services.

Pierce College Responsibilities

As a public institution, Pierce College must:

  • Provide equal access to educational opportunities
  • Ensure that physical and digital spaces are accessible
  • Make reasonable modifications and accommodations
  • Engage in an interactive process with individuals requesting accommodations

Relevant Pierce College Policies

For more information or assistance interpreting these policies, please contact:

External Resources