Stephanie Barnes Appointed Americans with Disabilities Coordinator

Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. has appointed Stephanie Barnes as the Territory’s Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator. Barnes will ensure that all government agencies in the territory comply with a federal mandate prohibiting discrimination because of a disability.

Through the appointment, Governor de Jongh is realizing a campaign promise to put someone in a position to advocate on behalf of Virgin Islanders with special needs, improving their employment opportunities, access to public institutions and services. “Lt. Governor Francis and I are keenly aware that there was more we needed to do in government. We look forward to supporting Ms. Barnes in her efforts to ensure all public institutions offer the treatment and service that disabled members of our community deserve.”

The new ADA coordinator will evaluate government communication and employment policies, annually review all government entities and make sure public schools comply with ADA, Section 504 and IDEA requirements. She will oversee training, a grievance process and education policies as they relate to assisting the disabled.

Barnes noted that never before has there been such a position in the V.I. Government. “This has been a tremendous undertaking and I am poised to work with each agency head to address these concerns.” 

In creating the Office of the ADA Coordinator, de Jongh said that 100 ADA trainers in the territory will be afforded the opportunity to earn an income. The ADA Coordinator will establish training for all government agencies and departments as needed at no cost to the local government. Every government agency will name a person to coordinate with the new ADA coordinator on addressing the concerns of those with special needs and adhering to ADA requirements. 

Barnes has already held discussions with representatives of the Departments of Education and Justice. Her appointment was effective Monday, February 15, 2010.

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