When a student requests accommodations for a disability, faculty receive an email with information about the types of accommodations that must be provided. Faculty may work with support units, such as DASS, to determine how those accommodations happen in their specific class contexts.
This document includes some answers to frequently asked questions faculty have asked about DASS student accommodations.
I have a student with a disability in my class, what should I do?
Protect the student’s confidentiality by discussing accommodations in a private setting. Review the individualized accommodations letter. If you have any questions about the accommodations, contact DASS.
There is a student in my class that is having difficulty or I suspect may have a disability. What should I do?
If you think a student may have an unreported or undiagnosed disability and could benefit from DASS services, use your judgment in referring the student to the DASS office for assistance. If a student is concerned that the information is not confidential, please reinforce that all medical/disability-related documentation is confidential and remains only with DASS. The student can meet to discuss the possible presence of a disability, the need for extra support, accommodations, or additional referrals. If students do not qualify for services, they may be referred to health, counseling, tutoring, or other services that may be more applicable to their situation.
How do I deal with a student who is missing too much class time due to a disability and attendance is required?
Refer the student to DASS if they have a medical reason for missing classes, assignments, and/or exams. The medical documentation can be verified by DASS, then they can work with you(faculty) on a reasonable time schedule for completing work and exams. Please see the recommended Attendance Policy Statement
Can I alter a student’s accommodation?
No. Accommodations can only be altered if it is agreed upon by the student, faculty, and DASS.
A student disclosed that they have a disability, can I just offer accommodations?
No. The student must report to DASS to ensure that all documentation is reviewed, and that appropriate accommodations are recommended.
Best Practices for Faculty
TLi encourages faculty members to consider the following best practices in supporting students with disabilities:
- Place your book orders early, according to the Bookstore’s deadlines. It can take additional time to secure textbooks in accessible formats (e-text, large print, etc.).
- Respect the confidentiality of students with disabilities by discussing their accommodations in a private setting.
- As per ADA requirements, the following campus policy should appear in your syllabus:
The following statements were taken from the Faculty & Staff DASS webpage- Disability Statement
- If you are a student with a disability requesting reasonable accommodations in this course, please visit Disability Accommodations and Support Services (DASS) located on the second floor of Arroyo Hall, or call 805-437-3331. All requests for reasonable accommodations require registration with DASS in advance of need. You can apply for DASS services online. Faculty, students, and DASS will work together regarding classroom accommodations. You are encouraged to discuss approved accommodations with your faculty.
- Attendance Policy Statement
- Note: If you include an attendance policy in your course syllabus, we strongly encouraged faculty to add the following language:
“For extenuating circumstances related to a medical condition or disability for which you may require reasonable accommodation, please refer to the Disability Statement”
- Note: If you include an attendance policy in your course syllabus, we strongly encouraged faculty to add the following language:
- Disability Statement
