Configuring Finalsite Enrollment for Accessibility Compliance

Accessibility isn’t a checkbox. It’s an ongoing practice that spans both the technology behind a product and how it’s used day to day.

Finalsite products, including Finalsite Enrollment (EMS), are built with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards in mind, providing a strong foundation for accessible digital experiences. Accessibility in EMS is shaped by both the platform and how forms, content, and assets are configured. While many accessibility practices are built into the system, schools and districts play an important role in ensuring their enrollment experience is usable and inclusive for all families.

In Finalsite Enrollment, this responsibility is even more critical because families are completing essential tasks like applying and registering that directly impact their child’s access to school. Use this guide to ensure your enrollment setup meets the 2026 ADA standards.

In this Article:

• Part 1: Designing Accessible Forms
• Part 2: Managing the Parent Portal Interface
• How We Support Assistive Technologies
• Our Shared Responsibility in Accessibility

Part 1: Designing Accessible Forms

Since parents are frequently inputting sensitive data, your form configuration must prioritize clarity and programmatic structure.

Label Form Prompts Accurately

• Create Descriptive Labels: Ensure every question has a clear, programmatic label (e.g., "Parent/Guardian Name" instead of just "Name").
• Support Assistive Technology: Use specific prompts so screen readers accurately announce exactly what information is required in each field.

Provide Clear Field Instructions and Guidance

Proactively prevent errors by adding Explanation text and Comment fields to your forms.

• Guide the User: Use Comment fields and Explanation text for descriptive instructions (e.g., "Enter your email as [e-mail]") and explicitly state if a field is required.
• Learn More: See the articles "Forms: Basic Form Editor (Text Edits)" and "Online Form Overview."

Establish an Instructional Hierarchy

• Utilize Text Blocks: Insert sub-headings at the start of complex sections, such as financial aid or medical history, to provide essential context.
• Divide into Logical Pages: Group related fields with page breaks and descriptive titles (e.g., "Parent/Guardian Information") to help users navigate step-by-step.

Part 2: Managing the Parent Portal Interface

The visual and technical setup of your Parent Portal determines if all families can successfully navigate the enrollment journey.

Verify Branding and Color Contrast

• Audit Custom Colors: Ensure background, text, buttons, and links meet the 4.5:1 Contrast Ratio required by WCAG 2.1 AA.

Provide Guidance and Instructions

• Write Clear Checklist Instructions: Include a brief Parent Explanation on checklist items explaining requirements for each step.
• Add Contact Information: Use Parent Portal Content templates to add clear steps and contact info on the login page, sidebar, and above student checklists.

How We Support Assistive Technologies

• Screen readers: Optimized for VoiceOver, NVDA, and JAWS.
• Touch targets: Interactive elements meet the 44x44 pixel minimum.
• Navigation: Predictable interactions and logical structure ensure families can complete submissions without confusion.

Our Shared Responsibility in Accessibility

Because EMS allows for customization in field configurations and styling, accessibility is a shared responsibility. We remain committed to improving the platform foundation while your school’s setup ensures an inclusive experience for all families.