Procedures for Faculty
Responsibilities
for Faculty:
Working with Students with Disabilities
Providing accommodations for students with disabilities is
an interactive process between the student, Disability Services and the faculty
member. Disability Services is here to assist you and the student along the way
so this process is positive and effective.
What do I need to
know regarding students with disabilities in my classes?
- The
student should provide instructors with a VISA (Verification of Individualized Services and Accommodations). Students are legally indicating their
need for accommodation when this is presented. Faculty may receive this information
from Disability Services, but should still discuss the VISA with the
student directly.
- Due to
laws related to confidentiality, the VISA
form does not disclose the student’s disability; release of diagnostic
disability information can only be made with a student’s consent or in
very exceptional and extraordinary circumstances.
- The student has the right not to
disclose their accommodation needs, but if they do not go through
Disability Services, faculty is under no obligation to provide requested
accommodations.
What are my
responsibilities to a student with a disability?
- Once
you’ve been provided the VISA,
to provide the reasonable accommodations in your class outlined on the
form and discuss this with the student directly.
- To be
open to ideas in how to best provide accommodations for your specific
courses that provide access without fundamentally altering core
requirements.
- Make a
good faith effort in working with the student and Disability
Services. Accommodations are easier
to provide with your help.
- To
keep information regarding a student with a disability confidential.
What is Disability
Services’ responsibilities?
- To
keep documentation on students with disability confidential (according to
law) and determine accommodations for the student that are generally
effective.
- Include
faculty and staff in the determination of what is appropriate for specific
classes or concerns regarding access.
- Meet
with students regarding disability related issues or refer them as needed.
- Coordinate
alternative testing, note taking and other services required by law.
- To
educate and inform faculty, staff and students of procedures and policies.
What is the
student’s responsibility?
- To
actively participate in setting up services through Disability Services.
- To
inform the instructors of their accommodation needs in a timely, private way.
- To be
proactive about their needs and work interactively with faculty and staff.
Accommodations are a legal requirement, but they
should be done with a collaborative spirit.
Our University goal and
obligation is to insure every student has an equal access (and opportunity);
what students do with that opportunity |
