Sharon Bernards is a Champion for Accessibility Finalist
June 4, 2026
Vedder Middle School (VMS) principal Sharon Bernard makes choices every day to build a culture of inclusion for students and staff at her school. As a school leader, she focuses on continuous learning to bring best practices to support diverse learners in her school. She encourages those around her to consider accessibility, too.
Sharon was nominated as a Champion for Accessibility by a staff member in her school. “Through her initiative, compassion, and dedication to ongoing growth, Sharon plays a key role in helping create a school environment where accessibility and inclusion are not just goals, but daily practices,” said the staff member.
In the summer, the facilities team wrapped up a renovation to make VMS’s washrooms more accessible. Sharon advocated for the project.
She is also a champion for the accessibility needs of her staff. “I’m here to clear the way so others can do the work they need to do,” she said. “Honestly, I think I’m just doing the job that I’m supposed to be doing so I was extremely surprised to be nominated.”
Sharon’s connection to accessibility and disability began with her own family. “Deep down at the heart of it, it goes back to go back to my little brother who’s not so little anymore,” said Bernard. “His journey wasn’t the journey it should have been.”
Her brother’s experience influenced Sharon’s approach to accessibility. She prioritizes dignity, pride, and opportunity. “I’m looking for the best tool for the needs of that individual. What is the piece that the person actually needs. What is the skill so that they can thrive.”
Something Sharon is focusing on this year is making sure families get clear, accessible communication from the school. After a presentation on accessibility by the district’s accessibility core working, she began the work of making the school website and print communication more accessible and consistent. Now she’s thinking about language barriers and how to meet the needs of a diverse school community. Sharon’s curiosity keeps her moving forward. “It’s incremental change. The tiny little wins add up.”
Sharon and fellow finalists were recognized at the Champion for Accessibility Awards on May 28th.