Accommodation Appeal Procedures

If the student does not agree with the decision of Disabilities Services due to either a) being denied services or b) disagreement on the approved accommodations, and an agreement cannot be reached, the student may initiate a formal appeal. The appropriate steps for appealing the decision are:

1. Student should first discuss the problem with the Educational and Career Counseling Department Head.
2. If the problem cannot be resolved informally, a Request for Reconsideration Form should be filled out.
3. This form is sent to the Dean of University College. The Dean of University College will make the final decision after reviewing the student's file and meeting/speaking with the student, and the Head of Disabilities Services. The student will be notified of the result.
4. Students may also contact the Office of Civil Rights for assistance.
   
   

Office for Civil Rights
U.S. Department of Education
600 Superior Avenue, East
Bank One Center, Suite 750
Cleveland, Ohio 44111-2611
(216) 522-4970
FAX: (216) 522-2573

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Role of the Department Head of Disabilities Services

At all stages of the appeals process, the Department Head of Disabilities Services will be available to provide information regarding:

1. the student's needs, supported by documentation,
2. relevant legal guidelines and precedents, and
3. accommodations appropriate for given circumstances.
   
   

The role of the Department Head of Disabilities Services is to assess the documentation of disabilities and to approve the appropriate accommodations in an objective manner on behalf of the University.

The Department Head of Disabilities Services also assists faculty and staff in understanding the need for appropriate accommodations.