These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are designed to help families navigate the intake process and their responsibilities.
Can I speak with the Office of Disability Services on my student’s behalf?
The student is the primary participant and communicator with the Office of Disability Services and those with the college. In doing so, this helps the student navigate the process of higher education and builds upon self-advocacy and determination.
Our goal is to help students with disabilities receive equal access and opportunities to participate in higher education and foster independence.
I signed a FERPA form for my student. Can I speak with Disability Services about my student’s academic progress or accommodations?
Students are encouraged to have open communication with their parents/caregivers or other supports. Students should be involved with all communications with the Office of Disability Services, and other departments at the college. The student is required to handle any matters related to our office, including requesting accommodations and reporting issues.
Can I have access to my student’s ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ e-mail or Canvas?
The student can choose if they would like to share information from their e-mail or Canvas. The student should not share their username or password with others to access. Students should not allow others to use or maintain their ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ student e-mail or Canvas. This is in violation of ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ’s Technology Use policy.
Can I request accommodations on behalf of my student?
Students with disabilities who would like to receive reasonable accommodations must self-identify to Office of Disability Services. This process begins by students filling out the Intake Survey and submitting disability documentation through Starfish.
If a student is already registered with our department, they will need to request their accommodations through the LOA Renewal survey on Starfish. You may encourage your student to begin this process; however, the decision to identify with Disability Services and request accommodations is the student’s.
Can I speak with my student’s instructors on their behalf?
Please encourage your student to speak with their instructors. If they are having difficulties with self-advocacy regarding their accommodations and disability, the student should contact our office. If they are experiencing academic concerns regarding their instructor, please refer to the appropriate departments and Academic Affairs.
Does the Office of Disability Services work with parents and/or outside resources my student may be using (i.e. Academic Coaches, Case Managers, Behavioral Specialists)?
Students and parents may be familiar with a multidisciplinary team approach to education. Individual Educational Plan (I.E.P.) meetings to discuss the student’s IEP, educational goals, and working with others to ensure success for the student. IEPs/High School 504 plans only applies to K-12 education and do not transfer to college/university. As such, there are no planned IEP or case management meetings with a team.
The Office of Disability Services’ goal is to ensure students with disabilities equal access and opportunities to participate at the college. The student can choose if they would like to share information with their outside support team that can assist in fostering success.
Can I attend meetings with my student?
Your student may decide who attends a meeting with them as they have the right to privacy regarding their education under the law. Students can request to have individuals present at disability related meetings. We understand parents may have information that is pertinent to the student and in assisting them with accommodations.
What if my student is experiencing difficulties with their accommodations?
Please encourage your student to contact Disability Services to discuss with our staff what difficulties they are experiencing with their accommodations.