Accessibility and ADA Compliance
Smore is proud to support ADA and WCAG 2.1 AA compliance, ensuring our newsletters are accessible to the widest possible audience.
Our built-in accessibility features are designed to help both newsletter creators and readers enjoy a smoother, more inclusive experience.
Find the Accessibility Bar
All published newsletters include the Accessibility Bar at the top, which provides:
- High Contrast Mode – Ensures text and links meet WCAG 2.1 AA contrast ratios for better readability.
- Adjustable Font Size – Readers can switch between small, medium, and large font sizes without affecting the layout.
Other Accessibility Benefits for Readers
In addition to the Accessibility Bar, readers also benefit from:
- Keyboard Accessibility – All links, buttons, and sections can be navigated using only the keyboard.
- Screen Reader Compatibility – Newsletter content is structured with proper headings and labels so screen readers can announce text, links, and layout in the correct order.
Accessibility Features for Creators
When building newsletters in Smore, creators have several tools to ensure accessibility:
- Alt Text for Images: Add descriptive alt text so screen readers can meaningfully describe images.
- Clear Heading Hierarchy: Smore automatically applies proper heading structure to support screen reader navigation.
- Keyboard Navigation in the Editor: All key functions (adding blocks, editing text, publishing) can be completed using only the keyboard.
- Screen Reader Compatibility: The Editor and dashboard are fully compatible with screen readers, allowing creators to read and act on controls without relying on sighted use.
Tips & Tricks for Better Accessibility
Follow these best practices to make your newsletters more inclusive:
- Use descriptive link text: E.g., “Read our report” instead of “Click here.”
- Don’t rely on color alone: Pair it with text labels or icons for clarity.
- Keep content scannable: Use short paragraphs and clear headings to improve screen reader flow.
- Add meaningful alt text: Describe both the function and purpose of important images.
FAQs
Q: Can I remove the Accessibility Bar or change its location?
At this time, the Accessibility (ADA) Bar cannot be removed or repositioned.
Q: Are emailed newsletters ADA-compliant as well?
Emailed newsletters function more like screenshots, so some interactive features — including the Accessibility Bar — aren’t available in that version. To access ADA features, recipients need to open the online version of the newsletter by clicking anywhere on the emailed image or on the Translate button.
Helpful Resources
Smore follows the WCAG 2.1 Level AA success and conformance criteria to ensure our products are accessible and usable by the widest possible audience, regardless of ability.
For any questions, comments, or suggestions related to accessibility, please contact us at accessibility@schoolstatus.com.
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Need more help? Reach out to support@smore.com!
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