Getting started
Disclosing to DSS
Students have the responsibility for self-disclosing their disability and providing appropriate documentation in order to receive reasonable accommodations.
Documentation
Disability documentation provides evidence that the student has a disability that is recognized by the ADA. It is recommended for incoming freshman who have had an IEP or 504 plan in high school to obtain updated evaluations before graduation. The DSS office reserves the right to request clarification and/or further documentation of disability and functional limitations as may be needed to evaluate a student request for accommodations.
Intake process
All new DSS students will have a personal intake sessions with the Disability Support Services Coordinator. This session helps the DSS professional to gauge the students' needs and figure out a plan to best accommodate those needs. During this session, the student will learn how accommodations are provided by ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's and learn what their role in the accommodation process will be.
Confidentiality
All medical and disability information shared by students is confidential and protected under FERPA. If this information is to be shared with parents or others outside ÁùºÏ²Ê¿â's University, a DSS "release of information" has to be signed by the student.
Documentation
Students with disabilities must provide professional documentation to the DSS Office as part of the accommodation process. As a general rule all documentation should be:
- Current - The documentation describes the condition and is less than three years old.
- Credible - The evaluation is written by a medical/psychological or other professional clinician. The document is typed and signed.
- Clear - The report clearly states the diagnosis. For example "the client has generalized anxiety disorder," rather than "client has anxiety symptoms."
- Conclusive - Includes a summary that makes suggestions and recommendations for accommodations.