Disability Inclusion- Employer Toolkit
About this Toolkit
With generous support from Perkins Reserve Innovation Grant funding, San Diego Community College District’s Disability Support Programs & Services (DSPS) is working to reduce barriers to employment for students with disabilities. This toolkit aims to foster collaboration between Career Services, DSPS, and our employer partners with the goal of supporting job-seeking students with disabilities as they navigate higher education, career training, and the world of work. By centering our students' lived experiences and conducting employer surveys, we’ve pinpointed critical areas where enhanced awareness and resources can expand opportunities for students while also motivating employers to recognize the untapped potential within this talent pool.
Section 1: Disability Fundamentals
We broke down the disability laws and regulations to give you the important do’s and don’ts
Section 2: Disability Inclusion by Design
We offer easy actionable steps to help you set up inclusive physical and digital work environments
Section 3: Dispelling Myths
Let us share strong evidence that hiring individuals with disabilities can give you a positive return on investment.
Section 4: Business Blueprints
Learn how other companies made the investment in hiring employees with disabilities and reaped the rewards.
Section 5: Transformative Tales from SDCCD
SDCCD community members with disabilities share their insights.
Section 6: Disability Employment Resources
Start with us! SDCCD offers three Workforce Development programs, and we can help employers find qualified employees!
A Message of Thanks
Dear Colleagues,
I am thrilled to share the toolkit we have developed to empower employers - like you - to increase employment opportunities for students with disabilities. Made possible through Perkins Reserve Innovation funding, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) community and our employer partners for prioritizing the experiences of students with disabilities in their academic and employment strategies.
As you may know, individuals in some racial and ethnic groups are more likely to experience disability, reflecting systemic inequities that persist in education, health, and employment. Moreover, Americans with disabilities tend to earn significantly less than their non-disabled peers, with an earnings gap that highlights the imperative need for action. This is especially urgent as the percentage of U.S. public school students receiving special education services has steadily risen over the past decade, pointing to a growing population of talented, capable individuals eager to contribute to the workforce.
Our toolkit provides actionable steps to support your efforts in hiring, onboarding, and retaining employees with disabilities. Together, we can build stronger, more inclusive workplaces that reflect the rich diversity of our community. Your partnership is vital in this journey, and I am excited to see how this toolkit supports your success.
With appreciation,
Poppy Fitch
Dr. Poppy Fitch (she/her), Dean of Wellness & DSPS