Does SCU provide accommodations?
Yes, the Office of Accessible Education (OAE) supports students in receiving accommodations through the interactive process. This process focuses on holistically supporting disabled students for classroom, testing, housing, and dining related needs.
If a student had an IEP in K-12, how does that factor into the accommodation process?
When the student registers with OAE, they will be asked for current documentation. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), as well as Section 504 Plans, can be submitted as part of the accommodation request. OAE is responsible for reviewing and making a determination based on the student’s disability-related documentation and their personal narrative.
When can students begin to register?
Entering students can register via the OAE portal and begin their request for accommodations by completing the initial questionnaire, submitting appropriate documentation, and scheduling an appointment with an OAE Advisor.
How early can students schedule their meeting with an OAE Advisor?
OAE requires students to have been admitted to SCU. They are required to include their student ID# during the application process.
Are accommodations only classroom focused?
No, accommodations are intended to create equal access for the entire University experience during a student’s time on campus. Students can request and receive accommodations for academic, housing, and dining related needs.
What are the types of classroom accommodations that are most common?
It is important to remember that each accommodation request is unique per student. The below are just some of the accommodations OAE approves:
- Extra time on examinations
- Alternative test site (in a distraction-reduced testing environment)
- Classroom materials in alternative formats
- Assistive technology usage for notes and lectures
What is the role of the student in this process?
Students are responsible for registering with OAE and then scheduling and meeting with an OAE Advisor. After students meet with an OAE Advisor to discuss their accommodations request and accommodations have been approved, they are responsible for engaging with their respective faculty members concerning the implementation of accommodations.
Is the registration a one-time process or does it need to happen every quarter?
Once approved for accommodations, (if the student decides to utilize them) students will need to request accommodations be sent to their faculty each quarter through the OAE portal.
If a student has a severe food allergy, how do we manage the meal plan?
Once the student is registered with OAE, OAE can help to facilitate a meeting between Bon Appetit (SCU’s food service provider) and Housing on the needs of the student. Solutions will depend on the specific needs of the student but may include a reduction of meal plan to accommodate more flexibility, etc.
What happens if a student has an accident (i.e. breaks their arm, leg) and needs accommodations?
OAE works with students that may need interim accommodations and will work with students to understand their respective needs.
What happens if a students’ faculty member refuses to provide the accommodation?
If the student is accommodated through OAE and has notified the faculty member of their accommodations through the provision of a Faculty Notification Letter, the faculty member is required to provide and implement the accommodations. In the event that the student is experiencing barriers to receiving their accommodations, the student should contact the OAE immediately so that an OAE Advisor can engage with the faculty member to resolve the situation.
Does OAE have an Executive Function Coach and other related services?
Yes, OAE does have a formal Executive Function Coach (EFC) on staff. This individual is available for 1:1 consultations for students that are receiving accommodations through the OAE. The EFC also provides educational workshops throughout the academic year.
OAE also has a Digital Access Specialist. This staff member supports students' needs with assistive technology.
Can parents/guardians reach out to OAE if they have questions?
Parents/guardians are welcome to contact OAE for questions and clarifications about services. OAE will be able to provide general information about the university’s accommodation process to parents/guardians.
However, it is important to note that OAE will not be able to provide specific student information without prior consent from the student due to the confidential nature of the information that our office manages.
What if a student doesn't have documentation prior to their scheduled Accommodation Meeting with an OAE Advisor?
The student should move forward with completing the OAE questionnaire. After that, the student should meet with the OAE advisor to discuss their accommodation request. If they are not able to provide documentation at the time of their Accommodation Meeting, and their request and impact are determined appropriate and reasonable, OAE will approve accommodations on an interim basis. This interim period will typically conclude by the end of the current active quarter. After that point, accommodations will be paused until required next steps are taken. Next steps will vary depending on the situation and will be determined during the interactive process.
What if a student has received a new/recent diagnosis?
If a student's diagnosis substantially limits a major life activity, it is recommended that they request accommodations through the Office of Accessible Education. Our team can provide parameters on the type of documentation required and guidance on how to attain the appropriate documentation.
Can students have their family mail them medication refills?
Some medications, such as those often prescribed for ADHD or anxiety, are considered controlled substances under federal law. Mailing or shipping these medications, except by a pharmacy, is illegal. If a student will not be able to pick up their refills at home during a break, transferring prescriptions to a pharmacy near SCU may be a good option. The Student Medical Services website provides a list of pharmacies near campus.