If a student believes that Disability Services (DS) has not identified or provided appropriate academic adjustments and/or auxiliary aids, the student has the right to appeal. Students are encouraged to first meet with the DS Director to informally resolve the issue. If the issue cannot be resolved, the following procedure applies:
Within five (5) business days after the receipt of the decision of Disability Services, the student shall submit a written appeal to the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. The appeal should minimally address the following points:
- The nature of the disability and its current impacts and functional limitations in the academic setting.
- Details of the academic adjustment and/or auxiliary aid being requested and why.
- A description of all academic adjustments and/or auxiliary aids presently or in the past provided and/or offered by the DS office and explanation as to why these adjustments and/or aids are insufficient or ineffective.
The appellate review will be based on the information and materials in the case file, the findings and recommendations from the Director of Disability Services, and the student's written request for an appellate review.
The Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs or designee will issue a written response to the appeal. The written response shall be issued within five (5) business days of receipt of the written appeal. The decision of the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs or designee is the final decision of the institution.
If the student believes they have been unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of their disability, they may file a Complaint of Unlawful Discrimination in the Employee Relations & Affirmative Action Office. Students may also contact the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in the U.S. Department of Education. OCR is responsible for enforcing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act.