Student Rights & Responsibilities

You have the right to:

  • Confidentiality
    • Expect all disability-related information to be treated confidentiality.

  • Accommodations
    • Receive appropriate accommodations in a timely manner from faculty or DS after following proper registration procedures.
    • Have the opportunity to meet privately with faculty to discuss needed accommodations and any other concerns.
    • Please keep in mind that DS is the only office designated to review disability-related documentation and determine eligibility for appropriate accommodations.
    • Appeal decisions regarding accommodations and auxiliary aids. For more information, see the DS Student Handbook.

You have the responsibility to:

  • Provide documentation.
    • Provide DS with appropriate documentation of the disability.

  • Maintain confidentiality.
    • Go to the instructor’s office hours or make an appointment with the instructor to facilitate privacy when requesting accommodations.

  • Regarding accommodations...
    • To initiate request for specific accommodations in a timely manner, preferably earlier in the semester.
    • To follow procedures with faculty and DS in order to get the appropriate accommodations. An Examination Request must be submitted for every exam taken in DS’s testing lab.
    • To inform DS of the materials you need in alternate format as soon as possible.
    • To notify faculty/DS immediately when an accommodation is not being provided completely or correctly.
    • To notify faculty/DS immediately when a decision has been made to not use an accommodation or the accommodation is no longer needed.
    • To provide for your own personal living needs or other personal disability-related needs. For example, coordinating services of personal care attendants or requiring homework assistance are a student’s responsibilities and not the responsibilities of DS.

  • Communicate.
    • Act as your own advocate. Work with counselors on developing advocacy skills and communicating your specific needs and accommodations to faculty.