Frequently Asked Questions

1. I have a documented disability. How do I receive accommodations?

In order to receive accommodations, you must present appropriate documentation to the Disability Services Coordinator . Forms are available that show what is needed for appropriate documentation. You then need to request an accommodation. The Coordinator will determine if that accommodation is reasonable based on the documentation, discussions with faculty if necessary, and the course in question.

2. What if I require an accommodation during a test?

If appropriate documentation has been presented that demonstrates a need for testing accommodations, there are a couple of options. Possible testing accommodations are extended time and/or a distraction-reduced environment in which to take the test. First consult with your professor to find out where the test will take place, either with the professor or with the Disability Services Coordinator. If tests are to be taken with the Coordinator, the student is responsible for setting up the test time within a reasonable amount of time (usually at least a week notice is needed to set up a test time). You are also responsible for making sure you are on time for the test and cancel if needed. The professor is responsible for making sure the test arrives at the testing place before the appointed time.

3. I think I may have a learning disability or attention deficit disorder. Where can I go to get tested?

There are several private psychologists and psychiatrists who can do this type of testing. Ask your doctor if they can recommend one, or look for one in the yellow pages.

4. My professor refuses to provide me with the accommodations I need. What do I do?

You are strongly encouraged to talk with the Coordinator as soon as possible after a professor says they will not provide an accommodation. The Coordinator will then act as a liaison, getting both sides of the situation to mediate and arrive at a solution. You should not wait until the end of the semester since accommodations cannot be retroactively provided.

5. If I have a disability or temporary injury that makes it difficult for me to take notes, can you provide a notetaker?

Yes. The professor will be asked to make an announcement in class asking for a volunteer to take notes. You will be provided with a carbonless notebook free of charge. The volunteer notetaker will take notes as they normally would, and it automatically makes a copy.

6. How do I park in accessible parking?

Students can park in any appropriately marked accessible parking space if they have either a placard or a license plate issued to them by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

7. What if I have broken my leg and just need accessible parking on a temporary basis?

In this case, a letter from a doctor will be sufficient to get a temporary accessible parking permit. This letter should be taken to the University Police Office. If a permit is needed for more than one semester, you will need to get a placard or license place from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

8. I have difficulty walking or using my wheelchair from building to building, especially in bad weather. Can you help me?

Plan your schedule early so that you can get the classes that will allow you plenty of time to get between classes.  In some cases it may be possible to change the classroom. However, some classes cannot be changed because of necessary equipment, i.e., computer labs, chemistry labs, etc. These requests will be taken on a case by case basis.