Disability Advisory Committee
Promoting access, inclusion, and equity for employees with disabilities.The Disability Advisory Committee (DAC) is an internal employee committee led by the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) to promote equity, inclusion, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Serving staff at CDE Headquarters, State Special Schools, and Diagnostic Centers, the DAC plays a vital role in identifying barriers, providing advisory input, and advancing disability awareness across the Department.
The DAC is established pursuant to Government Code section 19795(b) and focuses on promoting equitable representation and opportunities for individuals with disabilities in California’s state civil service.
Please note: The DAC does not process individual accommodation requests, complaints, or confidential concerns. These should be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity.
Purpose of the DAC
The DAC serves as a collaborative advisory body that supports a culture of belonging and access for employees with disabilities. Working through the OEO, the committee:
-
Provides input on policies, programs, and initiatives affecting accessibility.
-
Promotes awareness and education on disability issues and rights.
-
Recommends improvements to physical, technological, and procedural accessibility.
-
Participates in interagency collaborations and statewide efforts to promote disability equity.
Activities and Engagement
Throughout the year, the DAC plans and hosts events that elevate disability awareness and celebrate an inclusive workplace. Past and ongoing activities include:
-
Disability Awareness Month events, including resource fairs and accessibility trainings.
-
Lunch & Learn sessions highlighting resources and lived experiences.
-
Development of onboarding and outreach materials to support new employees with disabilities.
-
Advisory input on accommodations and accessible workplace practices.
How to Get Involved
Participation in the DAC is open to all Department employees through a brief application process. Whether you identify as a person with a disability, are an ally, or simply wish to support disability inclusion, we welcome your interest!
Membership applications are accepted on a continuous basis throughout the year. All members are selected through the application process and may serve in general or leadership roles, depending on interest and availability.
Interested in a leadership role? Leadership opportunities are available annually in February. You may indicate your interest in leadership on the membership form, and the DAC coordinator will contact you when recruitment opens.
To apply:
-
Download and complete the DAC Membership Form(PDF).
-
Email the completed form to DAC@cde.ca.gov with the subject line: DAC Membership Application
-
A DAC coordinator will follow up with the next steps and additional information.
Meeting Agenda and Notes
In accordance with the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act, all DAC meetings are open to the public and will be publicly noticed at least 10 calendar days in advance. Meeting agendas and supporting materials will be posted here and on the CDE’s internal intranet web page prior to each meeting.
Meetings are held in a hybrid format, with participation available via Zoom or in person at CDE Headquarters.
Accessibility and Accommodations
ASL interpreters are provided at every scheduled DAC meeting and event.
If you require an accommodation to participate in a DAC meeting or event, please contact DAC@cde.ca.gov at least five (5) business days in advance. We are committed to ensuring our events are accessible and inclusive for all employees and guests
Contact Us
Email: DAC@cde.ca.gov
Telephone: 916-445-9174
Fax: 916-324-9818
California Department of Education
Office of Equal Opportunity
ATTN: Disability Advisory Committee
1430 N Street, Suite 4206
Sacramento, CA 95814
Other Resources
AskEARN | Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability
JAN - Job Accommodation Network
California Commission on Disability Access