Disability Services Rights and Responsibilities

The rights and responsibilities of students with disabilities receiving services at the college level differ from the K-12 school system. Education at the K-12 level is considered mandatory education and these types of services are provided to ensure that all students can receive an education. Education at the post-secondary level is voluntary, which means the Office of Disability Services (ODS) will provide accommodations to the student, but cannot mandate that they use services to which they are entitled. A helpful tool to read produced by Office of Civil Rights (OCR):
Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Students with Disabilities

As adults, our students have the right to choose whether or not they work with the Office of Disability Services. If a student with a disability does not want to work with our office or fails to follow the procedures required to receive an accommodation, that accommodation will not be given.

Responsibilities of the student

Students must initiate the process when requesting accommodations. Students are responsible for providing documentation to verify disability and to follow the procedures for receiving those accommodations. Failure to follow these procedures can result in a delay in receiving the requested accommodations.

The Student will:

• Complete the application process which includes: submitting an online application; providing ODS appropriate documentation and verification of his or her disability; meeting with the Director of Disability Services to determine appropriate reasonable accommodations. 
• Make accommodation requests using the ODS website platform at the beginning of each semester if receiving academic accommodations. 
• Follow the procedures required to receive the needed services in a timely manner. 
• Communicate with ODS in writing using the ODS website platform when providing additional disability information or requesting an additional accommodation or academic adjustment.
• Acknowledge that if a requested accommodation changes a learning outcome or is a fundamental alteration of a course or program, the request will likely be denied.
• Meet all academic and behavioral standards set by Westmont and individual faculty members. Faculty will not be asked to modify essential course structure or grading policies.
• Advise the Director if there are any problems perceived from faculty, staff or students regarding accommodations or other disability related issues.

Responsibilities of the Office of Disability Services (ODS)

The Office of Disability Services is responsible for providing services and accommodations in a manner which promotes independence, self-advocacy, and accountability for students with disabilities.

The Office of Disability Services will:

• Provide information regarding the Office of Disability Services, accommodations and the initial forms needed for services.
• Receive and evaluate the documentation of a disability for eligibility for accommodations.
• Maintain a confidential file with documentation and past accommodations. ODS records will be retained for five years after withdrawal or graduation date. Students are encouraged to make copies of documentation and accommodations.
• Receive and facilitate requests for accommodations.
• Assist in communication with faculty members regarding classroom accommodations and other college departments as needed.
• Upon request, provide resource information to campus and community services.