This presentation introduces the concept of wellness in the classroom, as defined by the New Hampshire Department of Education. It covers primary considerations related to healthy living and wellness, followed by areas of discussion, including higher education barriers, universal design, and accommodations. The presentation emphasizes the importance of creating accessible environments in both physical and virtual classrooms. It also discusses academic accommodations, their purpose, and the need for reasonable adjustments to reduce barriers for students. Additionally, the presentation highlights the significance of proactive measures in promoting healthy living and wellness to address potential issues before they become problematic and provides examples and resources for further reference.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the concept of wellness in the classroom and its impact on academic attainment according to the New Hampshire Department of Education.
• Explore the challenges and barriers in higher education, including inclusive education, disclosure of disability, and institutional barriers.
• Become familiar with the principles of universal design in both physical and virtual classrooms to create more accessible learning environments.