Navigating Student Accessibility Services at USF: A Comprehensive Guide
The University of South Florida (USF) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students. Recognizing disability as an integral aspect of diversity, USF provides comprehensive accessibility services to ensure that students with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate fully in the academic environment. This article serves as a guide to understanding the requirements, processes, and resources available through Student Accessibility Services (SAS) at USF.
USF's Commitment to Accessibility
Providing access to a diverse student population is embedded in the philosophy of USF. USF is committed to ensuring that all students with a qualifying and documented learning, physical, or psychological disability are provided reasonable accommodations in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Learning Accessibility Services (LAS) collaborates with students, faculty, staff, and community members to create usable, equitable, inclusive, and sustainable learning environments. SAS strives to provide equal access and reasonable, appropriate assistance and services to qualified students with disabilities.
Eligibility for Services
To be eligible for services, students must have a documented disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This documentation must be provided to SAS and reviewed by their professional staff. It's important to note that a school plan such as an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan is insufficient documentation in and of itself to determine eligibility, although it can be helpful in describing students’ strengths as well as possible deficits. All documentation is reviewed by the professional staff of SAS.
The Application Process
To initiate the process of receiving accommodations, students should follow these steps:
- Apply for Accommodations: Students need to complete the online Application for Accommodations.
- Provide Documentation: Submit comprehensive documentation of the disability. This documentation should be attached to the online application in electronic format.
- Review by SAS: All documentation is reviewed by the professional staff of SAS.
Types of Accommodations
Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the nature and severity of the student’s disability status. Educational access is the provision of classroom accommodations, auxiliary aids, and services that ensure equal educational opportunities for all students regardless of disability. Some common accommodations include:
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- Extended Time for Examinations: Extended time for course examinations may be a reasonable accommodation for students with specific types of disabilities. Students are responsible for submitting proctor sheets and requesting exam accommodations at least one week in advance of exam dates.
- Course Substitutions: Students with documented disabilities may qualify for a course substitution, but only to the USF General Education requirements.
- Housing Accommodations: Students seeking housing accommodations should complete the Housing Accommodations Request Form each year and provide documentation from a medical care provider supporting the need for specific housing accommodations.
- Emotional Support Animals: USF recognizes the value of emotional support animals and support animals. However, similar to seeking academic accommodations, there is an application process and documentation is required.
Accommodation Letters
SAS provides students with Accommodation Letters for instructors. These letters inform instructors of the approved accommodations for each student. Accommodation LettersSAS provides students with Accommodation Lettersfor instructors. SAS provides students with Accommodation Letters for instructors. Accommodation memos prepared by SAS staff do not give specific diagnoses. The letter-which you will be copied on-documents any appropriate accommodations the instructors should provide. However, this letter will not contain any personal, private medical information.
Confidentiality
SAS respects the confidential nature of disability-related information. Disability-related information is maintained on a confidential basis and only for the purpose of assuring appropriate accommodations. SAS will not release such information to anyone without your permission or there is a court order. Students may authorize the release of such information to persons or agencies outside of USF by signing a Release of Information Form.
Parking Accommodations
Students and guests with disabilities must display the appropriate USF placard on their car windows to park on campus. Students with state handicap parking permits may park in any designated handicap (disabled, accessible) parking nearby campus or on campus, with the appropriate USF permit. Please contact your specialist for direct information on how to obtain the appropriate USF permit.
Temporary Disabilities
Students with specific types of temporary disabilities may be eligible for accommodations. If you have a temporary disability, you may need additional documentation to extend your accommodations.
USF St. Petersburg Campus
USF St. Petersburg campus, located on Bayboro Harbor in downtown St. Petersburg, is architecturally friendly for students with various accommodation needs. Covered walkways connecting most buildings keep you shaded and dry. The flat terrain makes traveling around campus easy and comfortable all year round. USF St. students needing accommodations are recognized and valued.
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Resolving Concerns
If a student is dissatisfied with SDS policies or procedures, or with related decisions, the student is encouraged to resolve the matter by communicating with their disability specialist. Equitable resolution of the matter should be sought through this interaction. The University and the Office of Accessibility Services supports your right to file a grievance when you believe you have been denied equal access as described in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Additional Resources
USF has several on-campus and off-campus resources available to students with disabilities.
- Testing for Learning Disabilities: USF currently does not provide diagnostic testing for Learning Disabilities or AD/HD. However, SDS has a referral list for external professionals in the area.
- Contacting SDS: Contact SDS as early as possible in the semester. If a staff member is available, they will be happy to meet with you.
Key Takeaways for Students
- Disclosure: Once you are admitted, disclosure of your disability will allow you to work with faculty, staff, and SDS to obtain reasonable accommodations.
- Communication: Let your instructors know if you experience difficulties and meeting the requirements of their class.
- Proactive Approach: Students are responsible for submitting proctor sheets and requesting exam accommodations at least one week in advance of exam dates.
- Advocacy: If your accommodations are not adequate, let SAS know.
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