Requesting Services

Submission of documentation is not equivalent to requesting services and does not necessarily guarantee service through Accessibility Services.  It is the student's responsibility to contact the Accessibility Services coordinator in order to discuss accommodations.  Accommodation arrangements may be compromised or denied if a request is not made in a timely matter (eights weeks prior to the date of requested start of accommodation(s)).

Providing Documentation

It is the student's choice to self identify via Accessibility Services. To request services, the student must, in a timely manner (8 weeks prior to start of semester), provide disability documentation and contact the Accessibility Services coordinator. Disability documentation is helpful in assisting Accessibility Services in determining if a student is eligible for protection from discrimination (Rehabilitation Act, ADA) and the development of appropriate accommodations ensuring accessibility. The Accessibility Services coordinator will consider this information along with supplemental interview(s) with the student to determine:

1. If a disability exists;
2. If student is protected from discrimination by 504/ADA (documentation must establish a substantial limitation to a major life activity which then impacts negatively upon the academic setting applied to each course);
3. If requested accommodations are needed;
4. If so, developing appropriate and reasonable accommodations considering course/program requirements.  The college is not obligated to provide the specific accommodation requested by the student but to provide an appropriate and reasonable accommodation. By requiring documentation, the college attempts to ensure the integrity of the accommodation process and a climate of trust and respect.

It is advised that disability documentation be forwarded and an appointment be scheduled eights weeks prior to the date of requested start of accommodation(s).

A disclosure of a disability or request for an accommodation made to a faculty or staff member other than the Accessibility Services coordinator will not be treated as a request for an accommodation.

The student has the responsibility of providing documentation reflecting clear evidence of the existence of a disability indicating the current impact which substantially limits major life activities and scheduling an appointment with the Accessibility Services coordinator. The Accessibility Services coordinator, upon receipt of the documentation and interview with the student, will develop an Accessibility Services File. This information is not incorporated in the admissions file.

The release of any disability information is governed by federal/state regulations regarding privacy of information. In keeping with the spirit and intent of the law, information regarding the disability is confidential and is shared on a need-to-know basis. 

Determining Accommodations

Disability documentation and input from the student and professionals knowledgeable about the student's situation will be reviewed by the Accessibility Services coordinator. This collaborative effort will assist the Accessibility Services coordinator in determining appropriate and reasonable accommodations which assure equal access. Fundamental goals/essential standards of the course(s)/program(s) must be considered in review of these potential accommodations. Faculty input may be necessary in finalization of accommodations. Accommodations and services will vary dependent upon individual needs.

If the Accessibility Services coordinator determines that the student has provided insufficient documentation, it is the student's responsibility to provide needed supplemental disability information.  The college is not responsible for any fees incurred. Documentation must be complete and appropriate as determined by the Accessibility Services coordinator.  Occasionally, documentation is insufficient to pass a conclusive review. Sometimes a clarification from the documentation provider is needed or a new disability assessment will be necessary.

The college will attempt to ensure a good-faith effort in providing reasonable accommodations. Provisional services may occasionally be provided (to be determined by the Accessibility Services coordinator) and generally will not exceed one semester.

Scheduling an Appointment

For further information or to schedule an appointment, contact Pam Bova, Accessibility Services coordinator 636-922-8629 or e-mail: pbova@stchas.edu.

Once disability documentation is complete and on file with Accessibility Services, it is the student's responsibility to request services EACH semester. An office appointment is preferable. However, there may be instances where flexibility is necessary. In these instances, Accessibility Services  will consider discussion by phone or e-mail. Paperwork may be mailed or e-mailed. Accommodations are arranged for only one semester at a time. They are NOT retroactive.

An Accommodations Request Form will be completed and signed by the student. This form will include requested accommodations and classes. The Accessibility Services coordinator is responsible for initially approving or denying the accommodations. In some instances, faculty may need to assist in determining if a requested accommodation is reasonable. Faculty Notification Forms are completed for those courses impacted and requiring faculty notification.

Faculty Notification Forms will list approved accommodations. It is the student's responsibility to take these to the instructor(s). For Distance classes with no on-campus orientation, Accessibility Services  will forward the Faculty Notification Form after the student has signed and returned it to Accessibility Services. Both student and instructor signatures are required. If faculty have any suggestions or questions regarding the accommodations, they should contact the Accessibility Services coordinator. Faculty are encouraged to follow the recommended accommodations as outlined by Accessibility Services until the dispute is resolved. Any changes would be discussed with the student.

Once services/accommodations are implemented, the student may discontinue their use at any time. 

Faculty are encouraged to collaborate with the student and Accessibility Services in devising the most appropriate accommodations allowing equal access to the coursework without lessening the course/program integrity.

Students should notify the Accessibility Services coordinator immediately of any difficulties encountered with arranged accommodations.