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How Does the Accommodation Process Work?

Providing equal access is a university-wide responsibility in which Washington State faculty, staff, and students play important roles. The following guidelines help to clarify the different roles of those involved in the provision of accommodations and other services to students with disabilities.

 

Student Responsibilities

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  • Complete and submit New Student Application, along with documentation (see documentation guidelines) that would support the need for accommodation(s), as far in advance as possible to assure the most timely and effective accommodations.
  • Confirm that all required documentation has been received by the Access Coordinator and make an appointment to meet with her to discuss possible accommodations.
  • Meet with instructor to discuss your Letter of Accommodation. Be willing to discuss your accommodation needs and academic concerns with your instructors as needed. Many instructors prefer to work closely with you and are genuinely interested in your success—communicate early and often!
  • Check in with the Access Coordinator if there are changes to your disability which may require updated documentation or if you have any concerns about receiving your accommodations. She will work with you to clarify questions and resolve the matter in a timely way.

 

Instructor Responsibilities

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  • Include on your syllabus the most appropriate of the two disabilities statements below provided by the Student Affairs office:
    • WSU Spokane statement:
      Students with disabilities: Reasonable accommodations are available for students with a documented disability. If you have a disability and may need accommodations to fully participate in this class, please contact Jane Summers, Director, Student Affairs & Wellness, Academic Center 130A (spokane.access@wsu.edu or 509-358-7537) .
    • Multiple campus statement for those teaching a course on multiple campuses:
      Reasonable accommodations are available for students with a documented disability. All accommodations must be approved through your WSU Disability Services office. If you have a disability and need accommodations, we recommend that you begin the process as soon as possible. For more information, contact a Disability Specialist on your home campus.
  • Work collaboratively with the student and the Student Success Center to provide the approved accommodations, consistent with the Accommodations Form.
  • Contact the Access Coordinator if you feel additional accommodations may be needed, if you have questions about how to provide certain accommodations within your course format, or with any concerns you may have related to the process.
  • Know the essential elements of a course or program, so that accommodations can be provided consistent with academic standards.

 

Access Services Responsibilities

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  • Provide clear information about what documentation is needed to ensure that each student is eligible for accommodations and that the documentation is complete.
  • Help students identify and obtain reasonable accommodations.
  • Update Accommodation Forms each semester for each student who receives accommodations and other services from Access Services.
  • Maintain student information confidentially and sensitively, according to State and Federal privacy laws.
  • Inform students when additional documentation is needed or has become outdated.
  • Explore with students the impact of the disability and provide further information and/or referrals to other student services that might provide further assistance.
  • Demonstrate professional respect, clear and timely communication, and courtesy in the provision of services to students, faculty and staff.
  • Work collaboratively and positively with students and instructors to resolve questions, concerns and needs for accommodations in an expedient manner.