Accommodation Memos
What are Accommodation Memos?
Each semester, at the student’s request, Accommodation Memos are prepared for students with properly documented disabilities. A memo is prepared for each instructor with an extra copy for the student. These memos should be taken to professors. It is highly recommended that students discuss how they would like to use the approved accommodations in class. Students pick up the Accommodation Memos in the Academic Advising and Career Services Center as early in the semester as possible, once they are prepared.
Provided the student has had an introductory meeting with the Support Services Coordinator (SSC) the previous semester, and has not requested any changes to their accommodations, memos should be ready for pick-up within several days of the request for them. If the student must meet with the SSC first, there may be a delay of a week or so unless an appointment is scheduled for the first week of the semester. Students must be registered with the SSC and have a complete file in order to be eligible to receive Accommodation Memos.
Can Notification Memos be given to only some instructors?
Yes. Students have complete control in choosing instructors with whom they elect to share accommodation information. It is recommended, however, that each instructor be provided with a memo immediately, even if the student intends to start taking the class without using his/her approved acommodations immediately. Be sure to have an agreement with the professor so he/she will approve initiating the accommodations on a delayed basis. Some professors may not be willing to do this. Accommodations are not retroactive.
Procedure for Delivering Accommodation Memos
- Pick up copies of Accommodation Memos as soon as possible each semester. You may call the office to make sure they are ready.
- Sign a “Release Form for Students with Disabilities”. This document gives the SSC the right to discuss your academic record and accommodation needs with essential faculty and appropriate Academic and Student Affairs personnel. There is also a second option for giving the SSC permission to talk with your parents or guardian about your status as a student.
- Make arrangements to deliver Accommodation Memos to professors as soon as possible. It is recommended that a brief appointment be scheduled, in a confidential setting, with each professor to discuss accommodation needs.
- During the appointment, explain your accommodation needs. You may be asked questions about your disability, so be prepared to describe your disability in clear terms. You might want to discuss what has worked for you in the past, although your approved accommodations will be limited to those listed on the Accommodation Memo. You may find, however, that some professors are willing to discuss other ideas with you to help meet your needs. If that is the case, it will be a negotiated arrangement between you and your instructor. Your Accommodation Memo need not be modified to include such arrangements.
- Remember, if you do not deliver your approved Accommodation Memos to your professors, you will not be entitled to receive accommodations.
