At the University of Vermont, we are committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment where all students have equal access to educational opportunities. This page serves as a resource for faculty members regarding their rights and responsibilities when working with students registered with the Office of Accessibility Services: Student Accessibility Services (SAS). Our goal is to ensure that students with disabilities receive the necessary accommodations while maintaining academic integrity and course standards.
Faculty Rights
Faculty members have the right to:
- Expect all students, including those with disabilities, to meet the essential learning objectives of their courses.
- Request official accommodation verification from SAS before implementing accommodations.
- Consult with SAS if they believe an accommodation fundamentally alters the nature of their course.
- Receive support and training on best practices for implementing accommodations.
- Engage in an interactive process with SAS to determine the best way to support students while upholding academic standards.
- Maintain the integrity of their instructional methods, provided they do not create barriers to access.
Faculty Responsibilities
Faculty members are responsible for:
- Implementing Approved Accommodations: Providing reasonable accommodations as determined by SAS, including but not limited to extended testing time, note-taking assistance, and alternative formats for course materials.
- Maintaining Confidentiality: Keeping all information related to a student’s disability and accommodations confidential. Discussing accommodations should be done privately and professionally.
- Ensuring Course Accessibility: Designing courses with accessibility in mind, including using captions for videos, providing accessible documents, and following best practices for digital accessibility.
- Including an Accessibility Statement in the Syllabus: Informing students about the process for requesting accommodations through a syllabus statement. A recommended statement is:
"Students requiring accommodations should contact Student Accessibility Services. I encourage students to discuss their needs with me as early as possible to ensure appropriate support." - Collaborating with SAS: Working with SAS to address accommodation concerns and implementing solutions that balance student needs with course expectations.
Implementing Accommodations
- Extended Time on Exams: Faculty should coordinate with SAS or provide accommodations in a manner that ensures students receive their approved testing modifications.
- Note-Taking Assistance: Faculty may be required to facilitate note-taking accommodations by allowing SAS approved student note-takers or providing lecture recordings.
- Alternative Formats: Course materials should be provided in accessible formats upon request. Faculty can consult with SAS for assistance in creating accessible documents.
- Flexibility in Attendance and Deadlines: When applicable, faculty should consider reasonable flexibility for students with disabilities that affect attendance or assignment completion, in accordance with SAS-approved accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I believe an accommodation fundamentally alters my course?
A: Faculty should contact SAS to discuss their concerns. Accommodations should not alter essential course components, but alternative solutions may be possible.
Q: Can I deny an accommodation if I feel it is unnecessary?
A: No. Accommodations approved by SAS are legally required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. If you have concerns, consult with SAS rather than denying an accommodation.
Q: How do I handle a student request that is not approved by SAS?
A: Refer the student to SAS. Faculty should only provide accommodations that have been officially approved.