POLICY STATEMENT

This document provides definitions of terms that apply to all policies developed and used by the Disability Resource Center (DRC).

DEFINITIONS

Accessible: Individuals with disabilities are able to independently acquire the same information, engage in the same interactions, and enjoy the same benefits and services within the same timeframe as their nondisabled peers, with substantially equivalent ease of use.

Accommodations: Supports, including Auxiliary Aids and Services, provided by 91ĚŇÉ« College (the College) at no cost to qualified students with disabilities to ensure they have Equal Access.

Accommodation Aids:  An individual who provides Services to ensure access to college classes and labs for a student with a disability who would not otherwise have access. The Student Assistant is arranged for and paid by the Disability Resource Center and is an employee of the DRC.

ADA/504 Coordinator: The individual at the College who is assigned the responsibility of assuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to persons with disabilities.

Alternative Testing:  Any type of testing that is an exception to the normal testing environment for a class. Includes, but is not limited to, extended time, testing in a distraction-reduced environment, and/or use of technology, software, or other devices to make the test more Accessible for the student.

Alternative Text or Media: Text or media that ensures Accessibility for individuals with varying disabilities. The nature of the alternative depends on the access needs of the individual and the original form of the content. Textbooks, course packs, and other print-based material may need to be converted to an Accessible format, which could include but is not limited to accessible PDFs, audible text, large print, Braille, and tactile renderings. Electronic information may need to be converted to audible text or may need to include captioning and/or Descriptive Narration of videos.

Assistive Technology for Note-Taking: The use of software or technology to provide students with an effective means of accessing notes independently while still being able to engage interactively within the classroom environment.

Auxiliary Aids: Equipment, technology, and/or software provided by the College at no cost to qualified students with disabilities to promote the accessibility of the College’s programs, classes, activities, and events.

Communication Aids and Services: Interpreting, Real-Time Captioning, Computer-Assisted Real-Time Transcription [CART], Note-Taking Services, and other Auxiliary Aids and Services that assist with communication, primarily for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

Computer-Assisted Real-Time Transcription (CART): The process of a third-party individual converting spoken English into text viewable on a computer or smart phone. The transcription is word-for-word, including noting laughter, throat-clearing by the instructor, and other audible elements. The purpose of CART is to provide access for a student who is Deaf/Hard of Hearing to the spoken word within a class setting. The CART provider may be present in the room with the student or may access the spoken lectures and discussions through a high-quality microphone while located in another location. The student is provided a copy of the CART transcription after class to use for notes.

Descriptive Narration: Softly spoken English within a video or film that provides descriptions of what is occurring to provide access for individuals who are blind or have low vision.

Direct Threat: There is a significant risk to others that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by reasonable modifications to the College’s policies, practices, or procedures or by the provision of appropriate Accommodations, Auxiliary Aids, or Services. The determination that a person or device poses a Direct Threat to the health or safety of others may not be based on generalizations or stereotypes about the effects of a particular disability; it must be based on an individual assessment that considers the particular activity and the actual abilities and disabilities of the individual.

Disability Resource Center (DRC): The College’s designated office where students with disabilities request Services and provide confidential Documentation of disabilities. It is the first point of contact for students and faculty who have questions or concerns regarding Accommodations or other issues related to students’ disabilities.

Documentation: Material that provides official information or evidence or that serves as a record; the act or an instance of furnishing or authenticating with documents.

Dual Credit Courses: Courses in which students receive credits that apply toward both high school graduation and college requirements.

Emotional Support Animals: An animal that provides comfort to an individual with a disability upon the recommendation of a healthcare or mental health professional; its role is to alleviate the symptoms of an individual’s disability, but not to assist an individual with a disability with activities of daily living.

Equal Access: Within higher education, students with disabilities are provided an equal opportunity to participate in, and benefit from the educational opportunities, activities, and events offered at or by, the College.

Fundamental Alteration: A change that is so significant that it alters the essential nature of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations offered.  Auxiliary Aids, Accommodations, and Services provide a modification to the academic environment, but cannot lower requirements of a course, program, or event. Although students, employees, and campus guests with disabilities can choose courses, academic programs, or events as any other person chooses, people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to explore the learning outcomes of the courses and/or programs prior to enrolling or engaging in this pursuit.

Individual with a Disability: Defined by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act as “Any person who: Has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities; Has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities; Has a record of such an impairment.”

Interactive Discussion: The process in which a student with the disability and DRC personnel have a conversation about the functional limitations that the student experiences as a result of the disability (particularly within a class environment); Accommodations, Services, and/or Auxiliary Aids previously used; and other factors that are relevant for determining the individualized reasonable Accommodations, Services, and/or Auxiliary Aids for this specific student taking specific classes.  The purpose is to ensure that the student has the opportunity to share critical relevant information which could impact Accommodations, Services, and Auxiliary Aids, such as the student’s preferred Modality of Communication.

Interpreting: The process of a third-party individual converting spoken English into sign language (usually American Sign Language [ASL]). Additionally, the interpreter converts sign language into appropriate spoken English.

Modality of Communication: Primary and preferred method of the individual student who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Can include, but is not limited to, American Sign Language Interpreting, Real-Time Captioning, and Computer-Assisted Real-Time (CART) Transcription.

Note-Taking Services: The process of having a third-party individual present in class to take notes for a student with a disability who cannot take notes effectively due to the nature of the disability.

NSHE Identification (ID) Number: The number assigned to students and employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education.

Online Courses: College courses that are taught completely online.

Other Power-Driven Mobility Device (OPDMD): Any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines, whether or not designed primarily for use by individuals with mobility disabilities, that is used by individuals with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion. For the purposes of this policy, motorized wheelchairs are not considered an OPDMD.

Personal Care Attendant: An individual who provides services of a personal nature (e.g., bathing, feeding, toileting) for another individual. The College allows these services, but is not responsible for paying for the services.

Real-Time Captioning: The process of a third-party individual converting spoken English into text viewable on a computer or smart phone. The words are concept-for-concept, rather than word-for-word. The purpose of Real-Time Captioning is to provide access for a student who is Deaf/Hard of Hearing to the spoken word within a class setting. The third-party captionist may be present in the room with the student or may access the spoken lectures and discussions through a high-quality microphone while located in another location. The student is provided a transcript of the Real-Time Captioning after class to use for notes.

Service Animal: A dog (or a miniature horse, provided it meets the same work and safety requirements as a dog) trained to assist people with disabilities in the activities of daily living. As defined by the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), only dogs and miniature horses qualify as Service Animals; “other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals…”

Services: Services provided by the College at no cost to qualified students with disabilities to ensure they have Equal Access.

Timely Request: The amount of advance notice that a student with a disability must provide in order to schedule DRC appointments, Accommodations, Services, and/or Auxiliary Aids. The length of advance notice varies depending on what the student is requesting and the amount of time required by DRC to procure, convert, or provide the requested appointment, Accommodations, Services, and/or Auxiliary Aids.

Undue Burden: Significant difficulty or expense. In determining whether an action would result in an Undue Burden, factors to be considered include: (1) the nature and cost of the action; (2) the overall financial resources of the site or related sites involved in the action; (3) the number of persons employed at the site; (4) the effect on expenses and resources; (5) legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for safe operation, including crime prevention measures; and/or (6) the impact otherwise of the action upon the operation of the site.

Universal Design: Composition of an environment, whether physical or digital, such that it can be accessed, understood, and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability, or disability.

Working Day: Monday through Friday when the College is open.

PROCEDURES

The definitions provided above apply whenever these capitalized terms appear in any DRC policy.

RELATED INFORMATION

• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

HISTORY

DRC 1 – Disability Resource Center Definitions_06.05.2019

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, January 15, 2020.

The post Disability Resource Center Definitions (DRC 1.1) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This policy clarifies eligibility criteria for disability services at 91ĚŇÉ« College, as well as the respective rights and responsibilities of the DRC, students, and faculty.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1.1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Disability Resource Center Mission Statement

The 91ĚŇÉ« College Disability Resource Center (DRC) ensures that all students with disabilities are afforded the opportunity to access the same educational opportunities, receive the same information, engage in the same interactions, and be empowered to enjoy the same college experience as students without disabilities by:

• Promoting self-advocacy, self-efficacy, and independence;
• Ensuring that students with disabilities are afforded reasonable and timely accommodations;
• Assisting the campus community in identifying barriers to accessibility and solutions for providing accessible facilities, courses, events, and activities;
• Utilizing and teaching Universal Design principles;
• Facilitating a campus culture of inclusion and awareness.

II. Legal Requirements

It is the policy of 91ĚŇÉ« College to comply with the fundamental principles of nondiscrimination and accommodation in academic programs as set forth in the primary laws that affect higher education and disability. These include Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and the ADAAA.

Section 504 Act states, “No otherwise qualified person with a disability in the United States…shall, solely by reason of disability, be denied the benefits of, be excluded from participation in, or subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”

Section 504 defines a person with a disability as: “Any person who:

1. Has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities;
2. Has a record of such an impairment;
3. Is regarded as having such impairment.”

At 91ĚŇÉ« College, a “qualified person with a disability” is defined as one who meets the above definition of a person with a disability and who meets the essential eligibility requirements for the receipt of services or the participation in programs or activities provided by NSC.

Section 504 further states that an institution “shall make such modifications (reasonable accommodations) to its academic requirements as are necessary to ensure that such requirements do not discriminate or have the effect of discrimination on the basis of handicap, against a qualified handicapped applicant or student … Modifications may include changes in the length of time permitted for the completion of degree requirements, substitution of specific courses required for the completion of degree requirements, and adaptation of the manner in which specific courses are conducted.” Accommodations are reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure that each Accommodation is both effective and reasonable.

The ADAAA provides further clarification of who qualifies as an Individual with a Disability. It also provides information on Service Animals, personal mobility devices, and Documentation standards.

None of Section 504, the ADA, or the ADAAA requires colleges to lower academic standards or substantially alter the essential fundamental elements of courses or programs to accommodate students with disabilities. The requirement to provide reasonable Accommodations is designed to afford an equal opportunity for students with disabilities. Achieving reasonable Accommodations for a student with a disability involves shared responsibility among students, faculty, and staff.

III. Student Rights and Responsibilities

A student with a disability has a right to an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from programs offered at 91ĚŇÉ« College. To ensure an efficient working relationship with the College’s DRC, students are urged to take an active role in applying for reasonable Accommodations. To protect this right, a 91ĚŇÉ« College student with a disability:

• Has a responsibility to provide Documentation of disability to the DRC;
• Has a responsibility to identify as needing an Accommodation according to the timelines listed in DRC 4: Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations;
• Has a responsibility to actively participate in the search for Accommodations, as applicable;
• Has a responsibility to notify faculty of approved Accommodations;
• Has the same obligation as any student to meet and maintain the College’s academic and technical standards and Student Code of Conduct;
• Has a right to be evaluated based on ability, not disability;
• Is entitled to an equal opportunity to learn;
• Is entitled to an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from the academic community, including access to services, extracurricular activities, and transportation at a comparable level as that provided to any other student;
• Has a right to appeal the College’s decisions concerning Accommodations, first informally by working with the DRC Director; second, formally and internally, by pursing the College’s unlawful discrimination grievance process; and third, externally, by filing a complaint with the federal Office of Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education or through the civil court system.

IV. Faculty Rights and Responsibilities

For many faculty members, having a student with a disability in class poses new and unique opportunities, privileges, and challenges. Faculty have both rights and responsibilities when working with student with disabilities. The information provided below is designed to assist faculty in facilitating the process of integrating students with disabilities into the college environment.
Faculty:

• Have a responsibility to comply with 91ĚŇÉ« College policies, policies of the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the ADA Amendments Act, as these laws apply to higher education;
• Have a responsibility to refer students to the DRC if they self-identify as having a disability to the faculty member and are not already receiving DRC services;
• Have a responsibility to implement the reasonable Accommodations established by the DRC for each student with disability;
• Have a responsibility to provide the DRC all print material that needs to be converted to an alternate format (e.g. large print, electronic text, Braille, taped) a minimum of three (3) Working Days in advance of the beginning of class;
• Have a responsibility to protect and maintain confidentiality at all times when working with students with disabilities;
• Have a responsibility to treat every student with dignity and respect;
• Have a right to require all students, regardless of disability, to meet and maintain 91ĚŇÉ« College’s academic and technical standards. Although students with disabilities may use Accommodations, they must meet the same academic and technical standards as other students;
• Have a right to consult with the DRC Director and student if the location, delivery system, or instructional methodology limits the access, participation, or ability to benefit of any student with a disability. Collaboration ensures that reasonable Accommodations in those aspects of the course or program are identified and implemented and do not cause a Fundamental Alteration in the nature of the course;
• Have a right to teach in an environment supportive of learning and free of disruption. All students, regardless of disability, are required to follow the NSC Student Code of Conduct.

V. NSC Disability Resource Center Rights and Responsibilities

The DRC is responsible for maintaining confidential student disability records and coordinating reasonable Accommodations and Services for students with disabilities. For some students this may involve a combination of student support services (e.g., tutoring, advising) and Accommodations. For others, a single Accommodation is all that may be required. The DRC Director oversees the scope of support services needed by an individual student. As a part of this process, the DRC:

• Has a responsibility to comply with 91ĚŇÉ« College policies, policies of the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and the ADA Amendments Act, as they apply to higher education;
• Has a responsibility to maintain confidential records for self-identified students with disabilities;
• Has a responsibility to identify and coordinate reasonable Accommodations as indicated by the student’s Documentation of disability and the Interactive Discussion;
• Has a responsibility to obtain and/or convert standard print material to alternate formats, as needed, in a timely manner;
• Has a responsibility to identify barriers for students with disabilities within NSC and to make recommendations for eliminating those barriers;
• Has a responsibility to protect and maintain confidentiality when working with students with disabilities;
• Has a responsibility to treat every student with dignity and respect;
• Has a right to require Documentation of disability and need prior to making Accommodations;
• Has a right to require all students, regardless of disability, to meet and maintain 91ĚŇÉ« College’s academic and technical standards and the Student Code of Conduct;
• Has a right to work in an environment supportive of learning and free from disruption. All students, regardless of disability, are required to follow the NSC Student Code of Conduct.

VI. Confidentiality

Records related to disabilities are considered to be highly confidential. The purpose of such confidentiality is to protect the student from discrimination on the basis of disability as well as to ensure that the student’s medical records are not released except as needed to provide educational services. The DRC is responsible for collecting and maintaining these records, and only DRC personnel have direct access to the files. Disability-related information should be shared only when there is a legitimate educational need to know, and then only limited information shall be shared and only with designated college administrators. The DRC Director determines when it is appropriate to share information about students’ disabilities and/or Accommodations and ensures that FERPA, HIPAA, and primary guidelines are followed. In addition, the DRC may not share the nature of a student’s disability with faculty.

A. Confidentiality and Parents of Students with Disabilities

Within the postsecondary education environment, DRC staff and other College employees may communicate only with the student who is an adult. Parents are not authorized to contact the DRC or try to complete Accommodations processes on behalf of a student, and the DRC is not able to work with parents who attempt to do so. It is the student’s right and responsibility to self-identify. If the student wants parents involved, the student may invite them to attend appointments. In that case, the student must complete the DRC’s release form granting permission for a parent to have access to information about their Accommodations and College-related information.

Confidentiality also extends to faculty, who may not share information with parents.

B. Limits to Confidentiality

Exceptions to the protection of confidentiality include the following:

• • A court-ordered subpoena;
  • The student expresses intent to harm self or others;
  • Report of abuse of a child, an individual with a disability, or an elderly individual.

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• DRC 4: Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations
• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
• ADA Amendments Act of 2008
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, June 5, 2019.

The post Disability Resource Center Overview of Policies and Procedures (DRC 2) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This policy describes the processes and requirements for documenting eligibility for Accommodations due to a disability. For information on how to request approved Accommodations for a specific course, see DRC 4.1: Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1.1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

A student registering for approval of Accommodations for a disability is required to provide Documentation of the disability to the Disability Resource Center (DRC). Documentation is required for the following three purposes:

1. To establish that the student is an Individual with a Disability and thus a member of the protected class;
2. To establish the need for Accommodations on a case-by-case basis due to consideration of functional limitations, the nature of the individual class, and in order to have Equal Access;
3. To be prescriptive in assigning reasonable Accommodations through an interactive process.

Documentation from external sources may include, but is not limited to, educational or medical records, reports, and assessments created by health care providers, school psychologists, teachers, or other qualified employees of an educational institution. External Documentation will vary in its relevance and value based on the original context, credentials of the evaluator, level of detail provided, and the comprehensiveness of the narrative.

I.  Documentation Requirements

A diagnosis related to a disability must be made by a professional with the appropriate credentials for diagnosing/identifying the specific disability. Documentation must include:

• A specific diagnostic statement on letterhead identifying the disability and date of the current diagnostic evaluation;
• A description of the diagnostic criteria and/or diagnostic test(s) used;
• As appropriate and available, information about how each condition or disability affects the student with regard to physical, emotional, and/or cognitive limitations and the severity of limitations within the classroom;
• Pertinent information regarding treatments, medications, assistive devices, and resources currently prescribed or in use, particularly if these will have an academic impact;
• Specific suggestions as to the types of resources that may be considered by the DRC Director or Assistant Director as reasonable Accommodations;
• Credentials of the diagnosing professional(s).

DRC staff will determine whether the evaluation Documentation is sufficiently current. The DRC Director or Assistant Director will combine the Documentation with information attained during the intake interview and approve appropriate and reasonable Accommodations on a case-by-case basis.

II.  Submitting Documentation

In order for a student with a disability to be approved for Accommodations, the student is required to register for Services through the DRC. The student requesting Accommodations should make an initial appointment with the DRC no less than fourteen (14) Working Days prior to the first class meeting. If the student does not complete registration for Accommodations a minimum of fourteen (14) Working Days prior to the first day of class, the DRC cannot guarantee that all Accommodations will be available on the first day of class.

Prior to the intake interview, the student should create a student profile and upload Documentation of disability within the MyDRC database. DRC staff can assist students in locating the MyDRC database from the 91ĚŇÉ« College website and portal.

If the Documentation provided is not sufficient, in the DRC’s sole discretion subject to applicable law, DRC staff will explain to the student what kind of Documentation is needed. Additionally, the Director or Assistant Director can discuss options for obtaining the necessary Documentation if the student is unsure if the Documentation is available. Options may include, but are not limited to, accessing records from high school, medical or psychiatric Documentation (or a letter on letterhead from the doctor who made the diagnosis or is treating the condition, and who has signed and dated the letter), audiograms, psychological testing reports, and evaluations from state or community agencies and organizations.

III.  Accommodations Approval Process

After the student completes the online application for disability services and submits Documentation, DRC staff will review the Documentation and contact the student to schedule an intake interview with the DRC.

During the intake interview, the Director or Assistant Director will engage in an Interactive Discussion with the student. The purpose of the Interactive Discussion is to include important student input and provide the information needed in order to make informed decisions regarding reasonable Accommodations. The Interactive Discussion provides critical information regarding each individual student’s preferred Modality of Communication, which drives decisions about which reasonable Accommodations best address the needs and preferred Modality of Communication of each student.

The type of Accommodation necessary to ensure Equal Access will vary in accordance with the Modality of Communication used by the student; the nature, length, and complexity of the communication involved, including the nature and vocabulary of the student’s individual courses; and the context in which the communication takes place. When determining what type of Accommodation is necessary, the DRC will give primary consideration to the Accommodation the student indicates is most effective. To be effective, Accommodations must be provided in Accessible formats that address the individual and unique needs of each student in a timely manner and in such a way as to protect the privacy and independence of the student. To be effective, Accommodations, are not required to produce the identical result or level of achievement for individuals with and without disabilities, but must afford Equal Access.

IV.  Reconsideration of Approved Accommodations

Students with disabilities who wish to request reconsideration of the reasonable Accommodations that have been approved by the DRC may do so on an informal basis by scheduling an appointment with the Director or Assistant Director to review the approved Accommodations.

A. Timeline for Requesting Reconsideration

Typically, a request for a revision to approved Accommodations should be made within the first two (2) weeks of a term. However, there are occasions when the need to revise approved Accommodations may not become apparent until later in a term.

B. Reconsideration Process

The DRC Director and/or Assistant Director shall review the student’s request and the supporting disability Documentation, engage in an Interactive Discussion with the student, and make any revisions the DRC Director or Assistant Director determines are appropriate.

If additional information is required before a decision can be made, the DRC may temporarily provide the revised Accommodations for a specified period of time if deemed appropriate by the DRC Director or Assistant Director. This temporary revision to Accommodations does not imply that the revisions will be approved on a permanent basis. If a student granted a temporary revision to Accommodations does not comply with requests to produce additional information or Documentation by the date specified, the DRC Director may determine it is not appropriate to extend the temporary Accommodations beyond the end of the specified period of time for temporary Accommodations.

In some cases it is necessary for the DRC Director or Assistant Director to consult with a faculty member to determine which Accommodations are reasonable for a specific class. Decisions about reasonable Accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis and should take into account the fundamental elements (as documented in core competencies, learning outcomes, and metrics) of each class as well as the impact of the disability on the individual student.

If a student’s concerns are not resolved during the informal process of meeting with the DRC Director or Assistant Director, the student may file a formal grievance. Additional information on the grievance procedure is provided in DRC 10: Disability Services Grievance Policy.

FORMS/INSTRUCTIONS

Instructions for Submitting Application and Documentation through AIM

1. In order to access MyDRC, you must already have an NSHE ID number.
2. AIM is available at .
3. Sign in using your NSHE ID number and password.
4. Once you have signed in, the website automatically redirects to MyDRC, where you can complete the application for DRC services.
5. After completing the application, click on “Submit Application”, which enables you to upload documentation.
6. If you prefer to not upload the documentation of a disability, you may bring hard copies of the documentation to the intake meeting with DRC staff; DRC personnel can upload the documentation and return the original to you. However, you must still complete the AIM application, as described above, prior to meeting with the DRC Director or Assistant Director. If you need assistance, the application can be completed at the DRC at the time of the appointment with hands-on support from DRC staff prior to your meeting.

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1.1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• DRC 4.1: Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations, Services, and Auxiliary Aids
• DRC 10.1: Disability Services Grievance Policy
• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

HISTORY

Replaces DRC 3 – Eligibility and Documentation Policy_06.05.2019.

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, January 15, 2020.

The post Disability Services Eligibility and Documentation Policy (DRC 3.1) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This policy describes the process for requesting to use approved Accommodations in specific classes. For information on the process of registering with the DRC and applying for approval of Accommodations, see DRC 3.1: Disability Services Eligibility and Documentation Policy.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1.1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Requesting Approved Accommodations for Classes

Following the intake interview, students who have already enrolled in classes can immediately request approved Accommodations. If the student has not already registered for classes, approved Accommodations can be requested once the student enrolls in classes.

Accommodation requests for specific classes are submitted through the DRC AIM database.

II. Timeline for Requesting Approved Accommodations

The timeline for requesting approved Accommodations varies based on the specific Accommodations approved for the student. The following table provides the minimum amount of advance notice for various Accommodations requests. These timelines apply to already-approved Accommodations that a student is requesting to use in specific classes. They do not include the additional time needed to initially register with the DRC and complete all intake requirements.

For special requests, such as meeting with professors, tutors, or advisors, or attendance at workshops, club activities, off-campus-field trips, and other events that occur outside of regularly scheduled class time, the student should request the necessary Accommodation according to the timelines in the table above by emailing drc@nevadastate.edu. Students are encouraged to notify the DRC as far in advance as possible, particularly for off-campus events, to facilitate scheduling of Accommodations.

A. Late Requests

It is advisable for students to enroll in classes as far in advance as possible and request Accommodations at the time they enroll to ensure that Services are provided without delay. Every effort will be made to provide approved Accommodations for late requests, but the DRC cannot guarantee that these will be in place within seven (7) Working Days.

B. Delays in Providing Accommodations

The DRC makes its best effort to provide approved Accommodations within the timeframes specified in its policies. If the DRC determines a student requires an Accommodation that is not readily available and will be delayed, DRC personnel will take steps to ensure that the student is not denied an opportunity to participate in the academic program by using available alternatives to minimize the impact of the delay.

III. Requests for Changes to Accommodations Due to Schedule Changes

If a student drops, adds, or changes classes, the student must notify the DRC at drc@nevadastate.edu immediately to request a change to their Accommodations. Timely notification of changes is necessary so arrangements for changes can be established as quickly as possible.

The DRC will strive to expedite requests for changes to approved Accommodations, but cannot guarantee a faster turnaround time.

IV. Cancelling Approved Accommodations

It is the responsibility of the student using approved Accommodations to notify the DRC at drc@nevadastate.edu as soon as the student is aware that that the student will not attend class, class has been cancelled, or there is an exam that does not require Accommodations. A minimum of thirty-six (36) hours advance notice (not including weekends or holidays) is required.

If a student is a “no show” to class three times during a term and fails to cancel scheduled Accommodations in advance, the student’s approved Accommodations will be temporarily suspended unless there are extenuating circumstances that are reviewed and approved by the DRC Director or Assistant Director. To reinstate Accommodations, the student must schedule an appointment with the DRC Director or Assistant Director to review DRC policies in order to ensure that the student fully understands DRC policies and how to adhere to them.

V. Reporting Issues with Approved Accommodations

A student who experiences issues with any approved Accommodations should immediately inform the DRC Director or Assistant Director.

To ensure redundancy and avoid delays in addressing issues or concerns, there are three primary methods for contacting the DRC to meet with the Director of Assistant Director or to schedule an appointment:

• Visit the DRC in person
• Email drc@nevadastate.edu
• Call/relay call 702-992-2180.

FORMS/INSTRUCTIONS

Instructions for Requesting Approved Accommodations through AIM

• Go to
• Sign in with your NSHE ID Number and password.
• Once you have signed in, you will see “Overview.”
• If you are a new student, you will see “EForms”, which need to be read, reviewed, signed electronically, and submitted. Returning students may not see the “EForms.”
• Scroll down to “Select Accommodations for Your Classes”.
• Click on each class for which you’re requesting your approved Accommodations.
• Click on “Step 2” to customize Accommodations.
• Select the specific approved Accommodations you are requesting for each individual class.
• Click “Submit.”
• The DRC Director or Assistant Director will process the requests and send Accommodation letters to your instructors.

ADDITIONAL CONTACTS

ADA/504 Coordinator
Human Resources Office
702-992-2322
hr@nevadastate.edu

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1.1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• DRC 3.1: Disability Services Eligibility and Documentation Policy
• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

HISTORY

Replaces DRC 4.1 – Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations_06.05.2019.

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, January 15, 2020.

The post Requesting Approved Disability Accommodations (DRC 4.1) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This policy describes the Accommodations available to students at 91ĚŇÉ« College.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1.1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Accommodations Widely Accepted in Postsecondary Education

The following Accommodations are among those that may be assigned to students at 91ĚŇÉ« College. This is not an exhaustive list of the Accommodations that may be made available in response to a documented need:

• Services such as Interpreting, captionists, and Note-Taking;
• Extended time for exams, quizzes;
• Permitting exams to be individually proctored, read orally, dictated, or typed;
• Recording lectures;
• Assistive Technology software for assistance in studying and on exams;
• Assistive Technology, as approved by the DRC;
• Using Alternative Testing formats to demonstrate course mastery;
• Changing classrooms as needed for Accessibility;
• Preferential seating;
• Testing in a distraction-reduced environment;
• Alternative formats for print materials (e.g., Braille, large print);
• Others, on a case-by-case basis, as deemed both reasonable and appropriate.

II. Alternative Testing

The purpose of Alternative Testing is to ensure that any student with a disability has Equal Access to the test and that the Accommodations mitigate, as much as possible, the impact of the disability on the student within the testing environment. When determining what type of Accommodations are necessary, the DRC will give primary consideration to those that the student indicates are most effective. The student is not entitled to the preferred Alternative Testing arrangements if the College can demonstrate that there is another effective Accommodation or that providing the preferred Accommodation constitutes a Fundamental Alteration or entails an Undue Burden.

The decision to include any form of Alternative Testing as an Accommodation is made during the initial intake interview. Depending on the nature and functional limitation(s) of a student’s documented disability, the Director may approve individualized types of Alternative Testing. If any form of Alternative Testing is approved, the student may request Alternative Testing for all classes or only for specific classes through the DRC AIM database.

A. Exceptions to Testing Accommodations

In certain classes, labs, and clinicals the Accommodations, Services, and/or Auxiliary Aids provided for other classes may not be appropriate, as they may create a Fundamental Alteration in the nature of the program or present potential harm to others (e.g., patients). In these situations, Accommodations for testing will be determined after consultation with the appropriate academic Dean and will be reviewed to ensure access while also ensuring that the program is not Fundamentally Altered and that there is no potential harm to others.

B. Scheduling Alternative Testing

Almost all Alternative Testing takes place at the DRC. The instructor may proctor the student’s exam privately and ensure that all Alternative Testing Accommodations are in place, provided that both the student and the instructor agree to this process. However, such arrangements are rare. Exams administered by the DRC are proctored by DRC staff and/or live video surveillance cameras.

Students are responsible for privately discussing Accommodations, including Alternative Testing, with their instructor. If the instructor has additional questions, the student may refer the instructor to the DRC Director or Assistant Director as a resource to ensure that Alternative Testing is appropriately implemented. This includes providing instructions for the faculty member on how to implement the Alternative Testing process.

The student is responsible for scheduling all quizzes or exams that the student plans to take at the DRC. In order to ensure the availability of testing space and proctors, as well as to allow the DRC to procure the exam from the instructor, scheduling requests for alternative testing at the DRC must be received a minimum of seven (7) Working Days in advance of each quiz or exam. At the beginning of the term, students are encouraged to schedule Alternative Testing for all quizzes and exams that are listed on their syllabi for the entire term.

It is the student’s responsibility to schedule quizzes or exams that require Alternative Testing to take place on the same day and at the same time that the class will take the quiz or exam, with extended time included if it is an approved Accommodation. Exceptions to scheduling Alternative Testing on the same day and at the same time as the rest of the class require approval sent via email from the instructor to the DRC.

C. Late Arrivals for Alternative Testing at the DRC

All Alternative Testing scheduled at the DRC will begin at the scheduled appointment time. Students who are late will have that time deducted from their scheduled testing time, unless DRC personnel determine there are extenuating circumstances. Students who are going to be late for testing in the DRC should contact the office as soon as possible.

D. Misconduct During Testing

Misconduct of any kind will not be tolerated during a quiz, exam, or other test administered by the DRC. Anyone suspected of academic misconduct, including cheating, will be told to stop the exam and all exam materials will be collected immediately. The DRC Director or Assistant Director will contact the course instructor, who will determine the appropriate course of action in accordance with course policies and the NSC Student Code of Conduct.

III. Alternative Text or Media

A student requesting Alternative Text or Media must identify the specific textbooks, course packs, or other materials which need to be converted. The type of Alternative Text or Media approved by the DRC is determined based upon the intake interview and a review of the student’s Documentation, as described in DRC 4.1: Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations

If a student requests the conversion of copyrighted materials, such as textbooks or course packets, it is the student’s responsibility to submit a receipt that documents that the student has purchased these materials; the DRC may not convert copyrighted materials without evidence that they have been properly purchased by the student.

IV. Assistive Technology

91ĚŇÉ« College’s Disability Resource Center provides a variety of options to ensure that qualified students have Equal access and independence for classes, labs, activities, and related events. For many students, Assistive Technology promotes independence; allows the student to engage in class; ensures that the student has access to classes, labs, and related events; and teaches a marketable job skill. The DRC offers a variety of types Assistive Technology at no cost to students.

A. Requesting Assistive Technology

Contact the DRC to obtain approved assistive technology. Schedule an appointment with the DRC Administrative Assistant to check out the technology and receive hands-on training.

V. Assistive Technology for Note-Taking

The Disability Resource Center provides a variety of options to ensure that qualified students obtain meaningful and timely notes. For many students, Assistive Technology for Note-Taking provides a means for the student to independently take notes, promoting the student’s independence, allowing the student to create personalized notes that are meaningful and helpful, and teaching a marketable job skill. Additionally, the use of Assistive Technology for Note-Taking enables students to be actively engaged throughout class, while providing access to notes that can be edited and revised during the student’s personal time, promoting the student’s interactive engagement during class.

The DRC offers a variety of types Assistive Technology for Note-Taking at no cost to students.

A. Requesting Assistive Technology for Note-Taking

Contact the DRC to schedule an appointment with the DRC Administrative Assistant to obtain the appropriate technology or device and to request download information and resources for note-taking software. Hands-on training is available upon request; contact the DRC Administrative Assistant for an appointment.

B. Use of Notes

All DRC students using Assistive Technology must read, agree to, and sign the DRC Recording Policy. The notes are for the personal use of the qualified student only. Notes and/or recordings of class may not be shared with other students or posted online in any manner. Failure to adhere to this policy may result in disciplinary action.

VI. Communication Aids and Services

91ĚŇÉ« College provides appropriate Communication Aids and Services where necessary to afford qualified students Equal Access. NSC takes appropriate steps to ensure that communications with Deaf and Hard of Hearing students are as effective as communications with other students.

When determining what type of Communication Aids and Services are necessary, the DRC gives primary consideration to the Communication Aid or Service that the student indicates is most effective. A student is not entitled to the student’s choice of Communication Aids and Services if the College can demonstrate that there is another effective Communication Aid or Service, or that providing the student’s preferred Auxiliary Aid or Service constitutes a Fundamental Alteration in the nature of the College’s program or entails an Undue Burden. The provision of reasonable Accommodations due to disability cannot Fundamentally Alter the nature of the course, program, or event.

The type of Communication Aids and Services necessary to ensure effective communication will vary in accordance with the method of communication used by the student; the nature, length, and complexity of the communication involved, including the nature and vocabulary of the student’s individual courses; and the context in which the communication takes place. To be effective, Communication Aids and Services must be provided in Accessible formats that address the individual and unique needs of each Deaf and Hard of Hearing student in a timely manner and in such a way as to protect the privacy and independence of the student. To be effective, Communication Aids and Services are not required to produce the identical result or level of achievement for individuals with and without disabilities, but must afford Equal Access.

A. Qualifications of Third-Party Service Providers

The DRC furnishes qualified Interpreters, Real-Time-Captionists, and CART providers who are registered with the State of Nevada and who are able to convey the communication effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively and expressively, including the ability to convey any specialized vocabulary used in a class.

B. Service Provider Absence or Late Arrival

If a Service provider such as an Interpreter, Captionist, or CART provider does not show up for a class, the student should immediately contact the DRC. The DRC will contact the agency and/or Service provider to determine the status of the provider and make any necessary emergency Accommodation adjustments (e.g., recording and transcribing the class). The student is encouraged to wait at least ten (10) minutes in class to see if the provider arrives, unless instructed otherwise by DRC staff.

In the case of a Service provider absence or late arrival, the student should contact the DRC after the class period ends to discuss the situation. The student and DRC staff will determine if this is a one-time incident, if there were extenuating circumstances, or if it reflects a reoccurring pattern. If it is determined to be a reoccurring pattern, the Service provider will be replaced.

VII. Note-Taking Services

91ĚŇÉ« College provides appropriate Note-Taking Services as needed, which are approved through an Interactive Discussion in accordance with DRC 4: Requesting Approved Accommodations Policy. The type of Note-Taking Services will vary in accordance with the individual needs of each student; the nature, length, and complexity of the note-taking involved; and the context in which note-taking takes place.

Students are encouraged, when appropriate, to use note-taking technology to promote independence and to learn a marketable job skill. However, the DRC recognizes that technology is not always the most effective option.

A. Access to Notes

If the notes are not available for the student to download within MyDRC within twenty-four (24) hours of the end of the class period, the student should immediately contact the DRC at drc@nsc.edu to report the issue. The student and DRC Director or Assistant Director will determine if this is a one- time incident, if there were extenuating circumstances, or if it reflects a reoccurring pattern. If it is determined that this is a reoccurring pattern, the Note-Taking Services provider will be replaced.

B. Use of Notes Provided by the DRC

Notes provided by a Note-Taking Service or technology offered through the DRC are for the personal use of the qualified student only. Notes and/or recordings of class may not be shared with other students or posted online in any manner. Failure to adhere to this policy may result in disciplinary action.

VIII. Accommodation Aids

In some circumstances, a student with a disability may be assigned an Accommodation Aid for specific classes or labs. An Accommodation Aid provides in-class assistance such as scribing, handling chemicals or vials in labs, or providing Descriptive Narration, as prescribed by the DRC Director or Assistant Director following review of the student’s Documentation and an Interactive Discussion of the needs of the student and the requirements and environment of the individual class or lab.

The purpose of an Accommodation Aid is to provide access to the activities in the class or lab, enabling the student with a disability to have access and fully engage in the course and related activities. Use of an Accommodation Aid in a specific class may not create a Fundamental Alteration the nature of the class or lab.

An Accommodation Aid should not be confused with a Personal Care Attendant. Personal Care Attendants provide services of a personal nature, such as assistance with feeding, grooming, toilet use, and/or other personal activities. Personal Care Attendants also provide Services outside of the classroom/lab environment. 91ĚŇÉ« College does not provide Personal Care Attendants.

IX. Use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMD) on Campus

91ĚŇÉ« College will make reasonable accommodations to permit individuals with mobility disabilities to use OPDMDs (other than wheelchairs) on campus. The burden is on 91ĚŇÉ« College to demonstrate that the use of such a device would not be reasonable or that the class of the OPDMD cannot be operated safely with legitimate safety requirements adopted by the College. Consideration will be given to the device type, size, weight, dimensions, and speed; the College’s volume of pedestrian traffic; and the College’s design and operational characteristics (e.g., square footage, density and placement of stationary devices, and availability of storage for OPDMDs).

91ĚŇÉ« College must determine whether the OPDMD creates a substantial risk of serious harm to the immediate environment or natural or culture resources. The College must ensure that any safety requirements are based on actual risks, not speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations.

Recommendations will be made on a case-by-case basis for students with disabilities using OPDMDs and safety recommendations will be established as needed.

A. Requesting Use of OPDMDs on Campus

Students with disabilities who require the use of an OPDMD (other than a wheelchair) should schedule an intake appointment with the DRC Director or Assistant Director and provide disability Documentation, including Documentation of the need for the OPDMD as a means of Accessibility.

X. Other Accommodations

In some circumstances, a student’s unique needs for Accommodations may not be typical of those provided by the DRC. In such cases, the student and DRC Director or Assistant Director will have an Interactive Discussion in order to determine how these access issues can be best addressed. The DRC will give primary consideration to the student’s history of Accommodations that have proven successful in the past, provided that these do not create a Fundamental Alteration in the nature of the course or pose an Undue Burden to the College.

These unique types of requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. In order to allow time for research and consultation regarding possible Accommodations, it is critical that a student who has unique Accessibility needs consult with the DRC Director or Assistant Director as far in advance of the date Accommodations are needed as possible. It may be necessary to consult with the College administrator responsible for the course, event, or architectural barrier regarding fundamental requirements in order to ensure that Accommodations to not Fundamentally Alter a course or event, or pose an Undue Burden.

Due to the unique nature of these types of requests, DRC personnel may conduct research on best practices and/or consult confidentially, without revealing the student’s identity, with the Dean of Students, college attorney, and/or professional colleagues to assess what types of Accommodations might address the needs of the individual student within the specific class, event, or environment where Accessibility is a concern.

FORMS/INSTRUCTIONS

Instructions for Requesting Approved Alternative Testing Services

• Go to
• Sign in with your NSHE ID Number and password.
• Click on “Alternative Testing,” located on the left side under “My Accommodations.”
• You will be redirected to a drop-down menu, which allows you to select which class you are requesting Alternative Testing in.
• Once your class is selected, click on “Schedule Exam.”
• You will be redirected to the “Exam Detail Box.”
• In the “Exam Detail Box,” you will select the exam type, put in the date and time, and select the Accommodations requested for this specific exam.
• There is a box to include any additional notes you may wish to provide regarding the exam.
• Once the above steps are completed, click on “Add Exam Request.”
• Once you submit the request, you will be redirected to the page that includes all upcoming exam requests. If you need to make a modification, you may do so within this page.
• Any request to take an exam at a time other than at the same time as the rest of the class requires an email from the instructor to drc@nsc.edu granting that request. It is your responsibility to make the request for a different exam time.

Instructions for Requesting Approved Alternative Testing Services

• Go to
• Sign in with your NSHE ID Number and password.
• Click on “Alternative Testing,” located on the left side under “My Accommodations.”
• You will be redirected to a drop-down menu, which allows you to select which class you are requesting Alternative Testing in.
• Once your class is selected, click on “Schedule Exam”.
• You will be redirected to the “Exam Detail Box.”
• In the “Exam Detail Box,” you will select the exam type, put in the date and time, and select the Accommodations requested for this specific exam.
• There is a box to include any additional notes you may wish to provide regarding the exam.
• Once the above steps are completed, click on “Add Exam Request.”
• Once you submit the request, you will be redirected to the page that includes all upcoming exam requests. If you need to make a modification, you may do so within this page.
• Any request to take an exam at a time other than at the same time as the rest of the class requires an email from the instructor to drc@nsc.edu granting that request. It is your responsibility to make the request for a different exam time.

Instructions for Requesting Approved Alternative Text and Media

• Go to
• Sign in with your NSHE ID Number and password.
• Click on “Alternative Formats,” located on the left side under “My Accommodations.”
• Upload the receipt for your textbooks and course materials.
• Select the class(es) for which you are requesting alternative formats.
• Once your class(es) are selected, scroll down to “Additional Book or Reading Materials.”
• Select each class and input the titles of the reading materials.
• There are optional areas you may complete if you wish to provide additional information.
• Submit the request at the bottom of the page.

Instructions for Requesting Approved Note-Taking Services

• Go to
• Sign in with your NSHE ID Number and password.
• Click on “Note Taking Services,” located on the left side under “My Accommodations.”
• Your classes will appear on the screen. Click “Confirm Now” to activate the request for Note-Taking Services.

Accessing Notes for a Class

• Go to
• Sign in with your NSHE ID Number and password.
• Click on “Note Taking Services,” located on the left side under “My Accommodations.”
• Your classes will show on the screen with the class number.
• Click “Available Notes” to download the notes for each class.
• Download your notes.

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1.1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• DRC 3.1: Disability Services Eligibility and Documentation Policy
• DRC 4.1: Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations
• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

HISTORY

Replaces DRC 5 – Accommodations Offered by 91ĚŇÉ« College_06.05.2019

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, January 15, 2020.

The post Disability Accommodations Offered by NSC (DRC 5.1) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This policy clarifies the limitations to legal protections offered to individuals with disabilities who participate in study abroad programs outside of the United States and the responsibilities of students with disabilities who wish to study abroad.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Legal Limitations in Foreign Countries

Students with disabilities are served under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act. Under these laws, universities and colleges must ensure that their programs do not discriminate against students with disabilities. However, U.S. laws do not govern foreign institutions, even when U.S. institutions collaborate with them. It is the student’s responsibility to research the host culture to learn how disability is viewed in that culture. Students should learn about the types of Accommodations typically provided in the host country and consider their own openness to different ways of accommodating their disability. Students should be aware that academic and daily life in a foreign country can introduce new barriers and challenges that compromise independence for some students.

II. Requesting Accommodations for Study Abroad Programs

Students must disclose their needs and intent to study abroad to the DRC a semester in advance of their departure date to provide the DRC sufficient time to assess the availability of Accommodations and to make appropriate arrangements for Accommodations, if possible. Some Accommodations require advanced planning. Failure to discuss needs with the DRC in a timely manner may make it impossible to have Accommodations in place prior to the student’s departure. If a student does not disclose disability-related needs in a timely manner, the DRC Director will consult with study abroad program faculty and site personnel to determine whether Accommodations are possible.

III. Student Responsibilities

The student participating in the study abroad program is responsible for contacting airlines and other transportation services in advance of the departure date regarding travel needs to ensure availability of appropriate transportation. Students with Service Animals should research relevant regulations in the host countries (including which animals are recognized as Service Animals and any quarantine requirements) and should carry Documentation verifying that the animal is a Service Animal.

Students requiring assistance with daily living skills such as dressing, bathing, feeding, or mobility should ensure that their needs will be appropriately addressed; faculty and peers are not obligated to provide such services. A student requiring such assistance may need to secure a Personal Care Attendant. Assistive Technology needs should be negotiated in a timely manner.

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, June 5, 2019.

The post Disability Accommodations for Study Abroad Programs (DRC 6) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

91ĚŇÉ« College has established agreements with area high schools to allow students to receive both high school and college credit (or “dual credit”) for the completion of a single college course. This policy clarifies how students in those courses may receive DRC Accommodations.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Eligibility for Accommodations in Dual Credit Courses

Accommodations for students in Dual Credit Courses will be based on 91ĚŇÉ« College policies, policies of the Nevada System of Higher Education, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act as Amended (ADAAA). Dual Credit Course students are not eligible for modifications granted under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) which would create a Fundamental Alteration or change the outcome criteria of a class. Accommodations may not Fundamentally Alter the nature of a course.

II. Requesting Accommodations for Dual Credit Courses

All Accommodations for Dual Credit Courses must be requested through the NSC DRC, even when such courses are offered in-person on a high school campus. Dual Credit Course students follow the same intake process as any other NSC student with a disability who is requesting Accommodations; these students must follow the same policies and procedures as other NSC students enrolled in 91ĚŇÉ« College classes. The DRC will work closely with students and partnering high schools to ensure that reasonable Accommodations are identified and in place in a timely manner. Efforts will be made to minimize any hardships on students, including scheduling intake interviews and other meetings at the high schools to increase convenience for students.

III. Responsibility for Services

Services such as Interpreting, Real-Time Captioning, and/or CART are scheduled and paid for by he institution housing the class. If the class is taught on a high school campus, it is the responsibility of the high school to coordinate and pay for such services.

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• DRC 2: DRC Policy Overview
• DRC 3: Eligibility and Documentation Policy
• DRC 4: Policy on Requesting Approved Accommodations
• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, June 5, 2019.

The post Disability Accommodations for Dual Credit Courses (DRC 7) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This document describes 91ĚŇÉ« College’s policy on Personal Care Attendants.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Statement on Personal Care Attendants

91ĚŇÉ« College strives to accommodate individuals with disabilities as required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilites Act Amendments Act. The College recognizes that Personal Care Attendants may be necessary, in some instances, to address the personal needs of a student with a disability in order for the student to participate in the College’s activities, classes, services, and programs. If necessary, a student may hire an impartial Personal Care Attendant in order to ensure an equitable and independent experience similar to other College students. However, since a Personal Care Attendant is a personal service, Personal Care Attendants are not provided or paid for by 91ĚŇÉ« College.

II. Requirements for Bringing a Personal Care Attendant to Campus

The responsibilities of a student requesting to bring a Personal Care Attendant to campus include the following:

• Submit appropriate Documentation to the DRC supporting the necessity of having a Personal Care Attendant present on campus;
• Secure one or more Personal Care Attendants, as needed, prior to attending any College-related event or class;
• Ensure that each Personal Care Attendant registers with the Disability Resource Center each term;
• Ensure that if personnel changes occur during a term, the new Personal Care Attendant registers with the DRC;
• Have a back-up plan or alternative plan of action should the regular Personal Care Attendant not be available on a particular day or during a particular class period;
• Comply with, and ensure the Personal Care Attendant complies with, 91ĚŇÉ« College policies and DRC policies and procedures, as well as the NSC Student Code of Conduct;
• Pay for all Personal Care Attendant services.

The Personal Care Attendant is expected to:

• Follow all applicable College policies, rules, regulations, procedures, and practices;
• Assist the student before and after class;
• Wait outside the classroom during class periods (unless attendance in class is deemed appropriate by Documentation and approved by the DRC);
• Allow the student to take responsibility for their own progress and/or behavior;
• Refrain from intervening in conversations between the student and faculty, staff, or students;
• Refrain from discussing any confidential information about the student with faculty, staff, or students, except when necessary.

If a Personal Care Attendant fails to abide by the above practices, the DRC Director may determine that the Personal Care Attendant will no longer be allowed to accompany the student to classrooms and/or other College sites. In that case, the student will need to make other arrangements.

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• DRC 3: Eligibility and Documentation Policy
• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, June 5, 2019.

The post Personal Care Attendants for Students with Disabilities (DRC 8) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This policy describes when a Course Substitution may be considered as an Accommodation.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Course Substitutions

In some circumstances, the specific nature of a student’s disability may require consideration of a Course Substitution. If, as a direct result of the student’s disability, the student is unable to complete the work required within a specific class, with or without Accommodations, without creating a Fundamental Alteration to the nature of the class, it may be appropriate to substitute another course. The purpose of a Course Substitution is to provide an alternative course with similar educational goals that could be completed by the student with Accommodations without Fundamentally Altering the nature of the class or program.

II. Requesting a Course Substitution

The student requests a Course Substitution through the NSC Petitions Office. It is recommended that the student first schedule an appointment with the DRC Director or Assistant Director for assistance consulting with faculty, Department Chairs, and/or academic Deans about appropriate substitutions. The DRC Director may provide the student a letter of support that documents the necessity of a Course Substitution based upon Documentation of disability, prior academic history, and input from current instructors.

III. Approval Process for Course Substitutions

The DRC will consult with academic leadership (e.g., Department Chairs, academic Deans) and faculty members within the student’s major regarding potential courses that would provide similar educational outcomes and be appropriate as a substitution within the student’s major. The final decision on whether to approve a Course Substitution is made by the academic Dean for the school in which the student’s major is housed.

ADDITIONAL CONTACTS

Petitions Office
Phone: 702-992-2110
Email: petitions@nevadastate.edu

RELATED INFORMATION

• DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions
• DRC 3: Eligibility and Documentation Policy
• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• NSC Course Substitution E-Form (available in the myNSC portal)

APPROVALS

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, June 5, 2019.

The post Course Substitutions as Disability Accommodations (DRC 9) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.

POLICY STATEMENT

This policy describes the process through which students who believe 91ĚŇÉ« College is not reasonably accommodating a disability may file a formal grievance.

DEFINITIONS

See DRC 1: Disability Resource Center Definitions for all relevant definitions as they apply to DRC policies.

PROCEDURES

I. Right to Grieve

A student may engage in the grievance process if the student believes the DRC is not reasonably accommodating a disability. A student may also file a grievance based on a belief that there has been discrimination due to the student’s disability, whether in class, at a college event, or in any other activity associated with 91ĚŇÉ« College.

II. Filing a Grievance at 91ĚŇÉ« College

A student wishing to file a grievance related to disability services must contact the 91ĚŇÉ« College ADA/504 Coordinator.

III. External Grievance Process

If a student believes that there has been discrimination and/or that 91ĚŇÉ« College has failed to remediate the issue, the student may, at any time, file a complaint with the federal Office of Civil Rights (OCR). The student may contact OCR at

ADDITIONAL CONTACTS

Human Resources, ADA/504 Coordinator
Phone: 702-992-2322
Email: hr@nevadastate.edu

RELATED INFORMATION

• Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Approvals

Approved by Sharneé Walker, DRC Director, June 5, 2019.

The post Disability Services Grievance Policy (DRC 10) appeared first on 91ĚŇÉ«.