DRC policy & procedure handbook

Disability Resource Center HandbookUpdated 2010Dear Student,Welcome to the Disability Resource Center (DRC)! The DRC staff is pleased to assist students inachieving their educational and vocational goals.This handbook is designed to outline some of the services available from the DRC and specifiesguidelines that are pertinent to these services. The handbook does not address every service andprogram offered by the DRC and may be altered from time to time without prior notice. It is important tokeep in touch with your DRC counselor on a regular basis for updates on services and procedures.Students are encouraged to become familiar with the other relevant policies and procedures of Utah StateUniversity (USU) .The DRC is located in University Inn 101 (east of the Taggart Student Center ), and the hours ofoperation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You may also contact the DRC byE-mail, orby calling one of the following numbers: (435) 797-2444, (435) 797-0740 (TTY), or (800) 259-2966 (forDistance Education students)Handbook Index DRC at USU Mission Statement Goals How to Register with the DRC Distance Ed Transition to USU Application Process Eligibility and Documentation Confidentiality of Medical Information Reasonable Accommodation The Role of the DRC Counselor DRC Orientation DRC Services Services Not Available Rights and Responsibilities Class Attendance Academic Adjustments

Medical Emergencies Access and Safety Parking and Transportation Service/Therapy Animals Housing Financial Assistance Grievances Other servicesWhat is the purpose of the DRC?It is the policy of USU to comply with the fundamental principles of nondiscrimination and accommodationin academic programs, which are set forth in the implementing regulations for Section 504 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. These regulations state that:No qualified student with a disability shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded from participation in, bedenied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any ... postsecondary educationprogram or activity ... [Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, 84.43]An institution shall make such modifications to its academic requirements as are necessary to ensure thatsuch requirements do not discriminate or have the effect of discrimination on the basis of handicap,against a qualified handicapped applicant or student ... Modifications may include changes in the lengthof time permitted for the completion of degree requirements, substitution of specific courses required forthe completion of degree requirements, and adaptation of the manner in which specific courses areconducted. [Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, 84.44]The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 extends the provisions of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act toprivate institutions. It also puts in place more effective means for enforcing the law.The DRC works with individuals, faculty, and staff to ensure that qualified students with disabilities canfully participate in University programs, services, and activities. The center helps individuals withdisabilities overcome barriers that could otherwise limit their academic, professional, and personalpotential. These barriers may be architectural, attitudinal, or related to University programs. The DRCprovides direct services and coordinates with other state agencies and University programs to ensureequal access.Mission StatementThe mission of the Disability Resource Center (DRC) is to provide qualified persons with disabilities equalaccess to University programs, services, and activities as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This is accomplished by fostering an environment supportingthe understanding and acceptance of persons with disabilities throughout the University community, andthe provision of reasonable and appropriate accommodations. The DRC affirms the right of persons withdisabilities to obtain access in a manner promoting dignity and independence with emphasis on adaptiveand independent-living skills.

Goals Assist the University in achieving compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. This responsibility includes providing services and accommodations to students, faculty, and staff. Provide supportive services to individuals with disabilities, including academic assistance, adaptive equipment, counseling, readers, transcribers, interpreters, and advocacy to ensure equal access to education, employment, and other University programs. Provide academic, personal, and career counseling to assist students in the development of personal and financial independence. Review architectural and program accessibility and make recommendations for the removal of barriers. Provide support to faculty by providing training, designing accommodations, and consulting on disability- related issues. Promote University disability awareness through workshops, in-service training, and consultation with departments, faculty, and community activities. Evaluate requests for reasonable accommodation from University employees and students to ensure adherence to the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)How do I register with the DRC?Students desiring to qualify for the services of the DRC must complete the application process describedbelow and be determined by a DRC counselor to meet specific eligibility guidelines.Can Distance Education students register with the DRC?The DRC coordinates services for any USU student at any location within the USU Distance Educationsystem. The services provided to on-campus students and the process for receiving services will beduplicated to the best of our ability for Distance Education students. The application process is the same.Distance Education students will interact with their DRC counselor by telephone and by e-mail. Becauseof the challenges presented by distance, site coordinators may be involved in the provision of services.Specialized equipment can be sent to Distance Education sites if needed. However, the DRC does notprovide assistive technology for home use. Testing and Classroom Accommodation Forms will becompleted by the DRC counselor, and copies will be sent to the student, instructor, and site coordinator.Can the DRC help with my transition to the University?The DRC provides transition assistance to incoming students. Entry to the university setting from highschool, community college, or employment can be stressful. Some students need to review basic subjectsor need assessment to determine if college is right for them. The DRC will help you navigate thissometimes-complicated process.

Admission requirements for the University are the same for all students, regardless of the presence of adisabling condition and may change from year to year. Students who do not meet these criteria shouldmeet with an advisor to explore alternative admissions options. For students needing additional academicsupport, a variety of transition and remedial courses are offered including: ENGL 0010 Writing Tutorial MATH 0900 Elements of Algebra PSY 1220 Career and Life Planning PSY 1730 Strategies for Academic Success (study skills) PSY 1750 Comprehension Strategies for College Reading SPED 0100 Strategies for Reading (reading remediation)DRC Application Process:The Americans with Disabilities Act defines a person with a disability as an individual with a significantimpairment of a major life activity as compared to the average person, a history of such impairment, orwho is regarded by others to be disabled. Each applicants application will be evaluated based on thisdefinition.Qualified students with disabilities may be eligible for services and reasonable accommodations at UtahState University . In order to qualify for services, students must: Complete the application. Meet with a DRC counselor for an intake interview. Provide current disability documentation as outlined in the DRC Documentation Guidelines. Review documentation with a DRC counselor to discuss eligibility status and determine services. Students will receive a written statement of eligibility from the DRC. DRC eligibility is specific to USU and the DRC and does not apply to other programs, such as Vocational Rehabilitation, Division of Motor Vehicles, Workmans Compensation, Veterans Administration, Social Security, or other programs. Previous eligibility for these programs or public (K-12) education does not establish DRC eligibility. For more information on the differences between K-12 and Higher Education, please refer to the document: Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities Students determined to be eligible for the DRC must complete a DRC orientation program prior to receiving DRC services. Students taking Distance Education courses will be afforded accommodations once they complete the application process outlined above.Eligibility and Documentation:

Eligibility is determined based on the information provided in the medical or psychological documentation.DRC counselors will review the documentation to determine if the student meets DRC eligibility criteria.For the purposes of higher education, the Americans with Disabilities Act define a disability as asignificant impairment of one or more major life activities as compared to the average person. Major lifeactivities include, but are not limited to: Self-care, eating, performing manual tasks, walking, running,seeing, depth perception, hearing, speaking, breathing, digesting, sleeping, moving, learning, reading.Although the following information is helpful, and will be evaluated, the DRC is not able to acceptthe following as disability documentation: Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) 504 Plans or resource room information Veterans or Social Security Administration disability determination letters Vocational Rehabilitation acceptance letters Prescription pad notes or general letters from physicians Letters written by other University/college disability service providersWhat happens to my medical information once it is given to the DRC?The DRC follows relevant state and federal regulations with regard to confidentiality. DRC records aremaintained in locked filing cabinets and secure electronic files. These files are retained for approximatelyseven years, after which they are destroyed.In compliance with federal regulations, the DRC may share a limited amount of disability-relatedinformation with University personnel who demonstrate a legitimate need to know. Such instancesinclude: To advocate for academic adjustments or services In the case of risk to self or others Child or Elderly abuse.Students should keep copies of their medical information for their personal records. The DRC will notreturn any medical information once it is placed in the DRC record, nor will we send medical informationto other colleges or to employers. Each student will be provided with a folder to keep disabilitydocumentation and other pertinent information in.Will my transcripts indicate that I received DRC services?Student transcripts and other University records will not indicate DRC participation.What is Reasonable Accommodation?The Americans with Disabilities Act defines reasonable accommodations as the provision of services,such as interpreters, note-takers, extended time on examinations, architectural access, programmodification and other adjustments, which accommodate for the limitations presented by a documenteddisability.Students must be otherwise qualified for the program in which they are enrolled.

Neither Section 504, and/or the ADA require universities to lower their academic standards orsubstantially alter the essential elements of their courses or programs to accommodate students withdisabilities. The requirement to provide reasonable accommodations is designed to afford an equalopportunity for students with disabilities. Achieving reasonable accommodations for a student with adisability involves shared responsibility among students, faculty, and staff.How can my DRC counselor help me?The primary role of the DRC counselor is to provide academic and personal support to the student, whileencouraging and promoting independence. The DRC counselor does not function as a studentsacademic advisor or therapist, but can provide general counseling, vocational guidance, referral, andadvocacy. Each student will be assigned to a DRC counselor when he/she first enters the program, butmay change to another counselor at any time.Students should meet with their academic advisor and DRC counselor each semester prior to registration.Students can best be served when they schedule appointments with their academic advisor or DRCcounselor in advance.The DRC does not provide psychological services; however, DRC staff can provide referrals to providerswithin the community. The Counseling Center, the USU Psychology Department Community Clinic, theMarriage and Family Therapy Clinic, and Bear River Mental Health will provide personal and familytherapy. With permission, the DRC may consult with mental health providers to determine the type ofservices that will be most helpful to the student.How do I learn about DRC services and procedures?Once determined to be eligible, all students must attend an orientation prior to the implementation ofservices. This orientation informs students how to obtain services, explains the forms that must becompleted, and describes other critical steps for obtaining and keeping approved services. At this time,the student will also be: invited to register to vote, instructed in the use of WebCT, and given basicinformation on how to use Access.What services are available to DRC students?Students and their counselor will meet throughout the year to discuss the services that they are eligiblefor, which may include: Priority Registration Accommodated Testing Printed Materials in Alternate Formats Note-Takers Assistive Technology Communication Access and Interpreter Services Equipment Loan Architectural Access Program Accommodations

Library and Lab AidesPriority RegistrationPriority registration is available to eligible students who have accessibility and medical needs. Thisenables the DRC to relocate classes and coordinate services, such as sign language interpreters, note-takers, and alternate-format materials. Contact your DRC counselor to determine eligibility for this service.Priority registration dates will be posted in the DRC and in our online newsletter; however, students whomiss the registration deadlines must participate in the regular registration process. If a class schedule ischanged, it is the students responsibility to notify the DRC of the needed changes in services.Accommodated TestingEligibility for accommodated testing is determined by the DRC counselors on a case-by-case basis. Touse the accommodated testing program, students must follow the following procedures: Read and sign the Testing Contract with the Testing Coordinator. Pick up Testing Accommodation Form(s) from your DRC counselor for each class at the beginning of each semester. Take the form(s) to your instructor(s) to be completed and signed. Return the completed form(s) to the DRC Testing Coordinator at least three days before the first exam. Confirm each test date and time at least three days before each exam. Any changes to the exam date or time must be authorized by the instructor. As a rule, examinations will be given at the same time as they are given to the class for which the student is registered. The DRC does not have the authority to change the time of exams. The three-day rule is strictly enforced. Students who do not follow this rule may be denied accommodated testing services. All examinations must be scheduled during DRC business hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Examinations must be completed by the end of the business day. Please contact your DRC counselor if other arrangements must be made. All finals need to be reconfirmed two weeks before finals start or the student will need to make other arrangements with his/her instructor. Final examinations are given in accordance with the Universitys published examination schedule. The DRC is not authorized to alter the schedule.On the exam day:1. Arrive on time. Late arrival will result in a comparable deduction in the time scheduled for theexamination.2. Plan for your personal needs: eat, take medications, use the restroom, and make arrangements fortransportation and childcare. If you leave the testing room to take care of these things, time may bededucted from the testing time.

3. Do not bring children to the DRC while taking a test. This is disruptive to the business functions of theDRC and disturbs other test-takers.Rules for the testing area/room are:1. Once the exam has begun, students may not leave the testing room until the exam is finished, unlesspermission is granted from the testing coordinator.2. All books, homework, cell phones, pagers, and other electronic devices must be left with the testingcoordinator while the student is taking the exam. Any materials allowed in the exam room must beauthorized by the instructor.3. Readers are trained to read exams exactly as written and may not provide any supportive assistance,unless authorized in writing by the instructor.4. Scribes are trained to write exams exactly as dictated by the test-taker and may not correct spelling,punctuation, or organization, unless authorized by the instructor in writing.5. Scribes and readers are employed and trained by the DRC to maintain test integrity.6. The DRC reserves the right to enter testing rooms at any time for test security reasons. Blinds mustremain open, and the doors must remain unlocked at all times.7. Students taking online classes or online examinations must request testing accommodations throughthe DRC and submit signed Accommodated Testing forms from the instructor. Because online courseshave considerable variability, please talk with your DRC counselor to arrange for services.Violations of academic honesty will be reported to the instructor immediately.Students must take exams with DRC-assigned and supervised proctors.If youre sick, please observe the following steps, because the DRC cannotauthorize missed examinations or absences.1. As soon as possible, contact each instructor to explain your situation in general terms, leaving him/hera voice mail message if needed. Follow up with an e-mail, and retain a copy for your records.2. If you are unable to contact your instructors, contact your DRC counselor.3. Obtain written documentation from your health care provider to substantiate extenuatingcircumstances. The DRC will verify your medical information if needed, and notify your instructors.4. Visit or call your DRC counselor to review your situation and make plans for make-up work orexaminations.5. Keep records of withdrawal, course drop forms, and financial aid agreements in a safe place.6. Review your academic record to ensure that classes and grades have been recorded accurately.Printed Materials in Alternate FormatThe DRC recognizes that students who use alternate-format (AF) materials are likely to need adaptedmaterials throughout their personal and professional lives. For this reason, consistent with the DRCsphilosophy of preparing students to become independent, the DRC will train students on how to secure orproduce alternate-format materials.Alternate-format books are available from: Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic Bookshare

Utah State Library for the Blind and Physically Disabled Textbook PublishersThe procedure for obtaining alternate-format materials is:1. Students purchase the required textbook(s) and show the DRC a receipt(s) for the book(s).2. Students sign an Alternate Format contract and fill out a list of books they want converted.3. If the book(s) the student is requesting are not already available in alternate format, then theirtextbooks are unbound, scanned, converted to text, edited, and then converted to audio format andburned onto cds.4. The DRC does not convert any charts, graphs, or images into alternate format; if they are needed,please visit the ATLC.The level of DRC support provided is based on the recommendation of the DRC counselor and disabilitydocumentation. The DRC levels of service for Alternate Format are as follows:Level One:For those students that have vision loss or severe dyslexia. All material is scanned, converted to text,edited, and then converted to audio in our office.Level Two:For students who have severe learning disabilities or mild dyslexia. Student is responsible for scanning and editingthe text and the DRC will do the conversations.Level Three:For any students that have a learning disability.Student is responsible for everything except converting the the scan to text.Note-takers:Students desiring note-takers must apply for this service and will be notified by their DRC counselor as towhether or not they are eligible. Requests for note-takers must be made at least four to six weeks prior tothe start of the semester.Students may choose from two approaches to receiving notes:Student Directed:Student may ask a friend or classmate to take notes. Carbonless notepads are available. Student shouldinvite the student note-taker to register at the DRC to receive a stipend for their services. Supervision ofthe note-taker is the responsibility of the student . This includes class attendance, quality of notes, anddelivery of notes to the student.If at any time the student would like to have a DRC-coordinated note-taker contact the Note-takerCoordinator to make a formal requestDRC Directed:Requests for DRC note-taker must be made at least six weeks prior to the beginning of the semester. It isthe responsibility of the student to inform the DRC of changes to his/her schedule. After requests aremade to the DRC, a memo is sent to each instructor, asking if notes are provided to students online or aspart of an expanded syllabus. If these notes are not available, or are not adequate, the instructor will be

asked to make an announcement in class, requesting volunteers. A sign-up sheet will be circulated. If thesearch for a volunteer note-taker is unsuccessful, the DRC will identify a staff note-taker. Note-takers willbring notes to the DRC to be scanned. Students should receive their notes on WebCT within 24 hours.Students are responsible for checking WebCT for their notes each day. It is the responsibility of thestudent to notify the DRC if there are any problems with notes, so that adjustments can be made. TheDRC is not responsible for missing notes if the student has not notified the DRC of a problem. A stipendwill be given to volunteer note-takers in appreciation of their service.Communication Access and Interpreter ServicesStudents seeking communication access via transcription, sign language interpreters, or CART servicesshould meet with the Deaf Services Coordinator several weeks prior to the beginning of the semester todiscuss their needs. Specific guidelines are outlined in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Student Handbook.Does the DRC provide access to computers and other assistive technology or equipment?The Assistive Technology Learning Center (ATLC) is located in the Merrill-Cazier Library room 143. TheATLC provides assistance and training to students with disabilities who may have computing andadaptive technology needs. The ATLC Staff is available to assist you and their contact information andschedules can be found on the ATLC website or at the DRC.ATLC Technology-Software: JAWS - Screen Reader Zoom Text - Screen Magnifier Victor Reader - RFB&D Reader Text Aloud - Text to Audio Converter Dragon Naturally Speaking - Speech to Text Converter Wynn Wizard - Enhances Reading, Writing, and Productivity Math Type - Mathematical Equation Editor Accessible Graphing Calculator Magic Cursor and Screen Doors - Alternate Cursor/Keyboard Controllers Braille Translators - Convert Text Documents to Braille Tiger Designer - Design Graphics for Embossing as Tactile ImagesATLC Technology-Hardware Tiger Embosser - Embosses and Prints Braille and Tactile Images Opal Handheld CCTV - Electronic Magnifier Topaz CCTV - Electronic Magnifier Tracker 2000 - Control Cursor with Head MovementEquipment Loan Program

The DRC maintains a limited inventory of equipment, which can be loaned to students on a short-termbasis. Students are encouraged to visit the DRC to discuss their equipment needs with their DRCcounselor. Some of the equipment available includes: FM Systems (Assistive Listening Devices) Alpha Smart Keyboards Digital Tape Recorders 4-Track Tape Players Speaking Calculators Portable Screen MagnifierWhat services are not available from the DRC?The DRC provides services as outlined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. We are not ableto provide services of a personal nature such as personal attendant care, tutors, readers, scribes, typistsor interpreters for personal use including personal study. The DRC is also unable to provide equipmentfor personal use such as wheelchairs, computers or hearing aids.DRC Student Rights: The right to a learning environment free of discrimination and harassment The right to equal access to the programs, services, and activities of Utah State University . The right to reasonable and appropriate accommodations, academic adjustment, and aides, as determined on a case-by-case basis; and The right to appropriate confidentiality of information pertaining to his/her disability, except as required by law.DRC Student Responsibilities: Provide and update student information, including name, telephone number, and e-mail address, for DRC records. Recognize that e-mail is the official method of communication for the University. Students should check their e-mail often for information regarding registration, financial aid, the DRC, and other services. Voluntarily identify disability-related needs to the DRC. Provide current and complete disability documentation to the DRC. Formally request needed accommodations and services in a timely manner. Notify the DRC of any changes or concerns regarding services, accommodations, or if classes have been dropped/added.

Abide by policies contained in The Code of Policies and Procedures for Students at Utah State University and the USU Academic Policies and Procedures Manual Attend classes and maintain the academic standards set by the University, as well as by the college and the department of the students major. Communicate with faculty regarding administrative, academic, and disability- related needs. Personally make arrangements for personal needs, transportation, and study assistance. Develop strategies for emergency evacuation appropriate for their disabilities. (Contact the DRC for a copy of the University Emergency Evacuation Plan) Use services responsibly and treat service providers and faculty with respect and courtesy.DRC Responsibilities: Provide information and services enabling students with disabilities to participate in programs, services, and activities of the University. Review disability documentation and determine, on behalf of the University, eligibility for accommodations and services. Provide services in a timely fashion, in accordance with DRC published procedures. Keep disability-related information confidential. Support faculty and staff in the provision of reasonable accommodations. Advocate responsibly for the rights of persons with disabilities. Consult with University administration, faculty, and staff on policy and procedures related to accommodations and access, as required under current Federal and State law.Faculty Responsibilities Related to Students with Disabilities: Refer students to the DRC to have disabilities documented and appropriate accommodations determined. Include a syllabus statement for each course, informing students about the availability of reasonable accommodations and alternate-format materials. Help provide reasonable accommodations, including the use of auxiliary aides, note-takers, interpreters, and access to printed and web-based materials. Show confidence in students abilities to achieve their intellectual, personal, and academic potential. Keep disability-related information confidential. Discuss all student-related information directly with the student, rather than with his/her aide or interpreter.

Am I allowed to miss classes because of my disability?At USU students are expected to attend classes, laboratory periods, examinations, and clinicalassignments, as well as adhere to the attendance policies set by faculty. If a student feels that he/shemay need additional flexibility because of a disability, the student remains responsible for fulfilling theessential requirements of the course. The essential requirements are defined by the instructor, whodetermines if and when these requirements have been met. Faculties are not required to compromise theessential elements of the course as an accommodation.With this understanding, students who feel that they may need an attendance adjustment should followthe following procedure in making their request: Review the course syllabus to determine the instructors attendance expectations. Meet with a DRC counselor to discuss your specific needs. Obtain current documentation from your health care provider that specifically addresses your need for an attendance adjustment. (A form is provided by the DRC.) Meet with faculty to determine if the request is reasonable and necessary. If the request is granted, prepare a written agreement with the instructor to define the attendance adjustment.How do I arrange for services or disability-related academic adjustments?Students must meet with their DRC counselor at the beginning of each semester to discuss the servicesthat they will need. The counselor will provide a letter or form for the student to deliver to his/herinstructors, or a note for their DRC record, indicating other approved services.The two most common DRC forms are the Testing Accommodation Form and the ClassroomAccommodation Form. The Testing Accommodation Form is used exclusively to request adjustments inadministering examinations, such as additional time or a distraction-free testing environment. TheClassroom Accommodation Form is used for accommodations that are unique to the student, such asspecial seating arrangements, the need to stand up during class, or health-related issues. Please talkwith your counselor about the Classroom Accommodation Form.It is recommended that students take accommodation forms to their instructors during faculty office hours.This will allow instructors to read the forms and discuss adjustments with the student before completelyfilling out the forms. Many students prefer not to discuss accommodation issues in the presence of otherstudents. By meeting faculty in their offices, students have more confidentiality and an opportunity todevelop better relationships with their instructors. Faculty appreciate these accommodation contacts earlyin the semester and are most willing to work with students who keep them informed of unique situationsas they arise.Other needed services should be discussed directly with your DRC counselor.What if I have to leave school suddenly for medical or disability-related issues?Students who have medical emergencies are encouraged to apply for medical leave prior to the publisheddrop date for each semester . Late withdrawals are not automatic even for the most critical medical

situations. A request for late withdrawal made late in the semester may be denied. In such an event,students may file an appeal with the Provosts Office. Tuition refunds are determined in accordance withthe U universitys published refund schedule . The forms needed for withdrawal, leave of absence,academic adjustment, and appeals can be found on the Registrars website.Please check the class syllabus or the semester Schedule of Classes for information on late withdrawalor medical leave. Students should also check with the Financial Aid Office, their academic advisor,Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Registrar prior to withdrawal to determine the consequences of leavingschool midterm.Is the USU Campus Accessible?Most of the buildings at USU are accessible to persons with mobility impairments and have beenequipped with appropriate warning devices. Accessibility information is available from the DRC or online.Students and visitors who identify a location that is not accessible are encouraged to contact the DRC at(435) 797-2444, so that we may identify and address architectural or other barriers. In the event that aclassroom or lab is not accessible, the class may be moved to a different location. Please contact theDRC if additional modifications are needed.Is the USU campus safe for a person with a disability?USU has made every attempt to make the campus safe for all students. Appropriate fire alarms are inplace, and all safety code requirements have been addressed. Persons with disabilities may haveindividual needs that should be considered. Students and visitors are encouraged to be attentive to thepossibility of an evacuation emergency, and evaluate the locations where they reside and attend class,identifying possible evacuation routes. People who may require evacuation assistance should go to thenearest designated safe area and await assistance. Evacuation equipment (EvacuTrac) for persons withmobility impairments is located on the eighth floor of the Business Building , on the fifth floor of theUniversity Inn, and in the incident command response van. Persons with disabilities are also encouragedto use cell phones and other electronic devices to assist with location in the event of an emergency.How do I arrange for accessible parking?Permits for accessible parking may be obtained from USU Parking and Transportation Services. Studentsseeking permits should first obtain a placard issued by the state in which the vehicle is licensed. Studentsmust supply medical information in order to get a permit. Forms can be picked up at the Cache CountyCourthouse, First Floor Assessors Office, 179 North Main, Logan , (435) 716-7110. Their hours are from8 a.m. to 5 p.m. , Monday through Friday.USU Annual Disabled Stickers:A permit purchased from the University is required and must be affixed to the state disabled-placard thathangs from the rearview mirror. If a disabled license plate is used, a staff or student hanging permit willbe issued. Once you have obtained your USU parking permit, you may park in any "disabled-only"parking space on campus. If the disabled spaces are occupied, you may park in any other legal space.Temporary Medical Permits:USU also issues temporary medical permits to students or staff members having a short-term mobilitylimitation (i.e., recent surgery, broken leg, etc.). The permit allows access to specific parking areas duringthe individuals class times or working hours.In order to be issued a temporary medical permit, you must:

1. Have your doctor sign a verification form that verifies your disability limitations and the duration thatspecial access is needed.2. Bring the signed form, along with your current class registration if you are a student, to USU Parkingand Transportation Services. (Please allow 24 hours for processing.)3. Purchase a student or staff permit. To be valid, a temporary permit must be placed on the dashboard ofthe drivers side, so that it may be easily seen through the window.What kinds of transportation services are available?Aggie Shuttle:The Aggie Shuttle provides on-campus transportation with four routes, operating from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. ,Monday through Friday, as well as one evening route, operating from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. , Monday throughFriday.Complete Aggie Shuttle maps are available on any Aggie Shuttle Bus, at USU Parking andTransportation Services, and at the Visitor Information Center .Other Transportation Options:The Logan Transit District (LTD) operates local buses and buses that serve the greater Cache Valley . Allbuses are wheelchair-accessible and are ýfare free,ý including paratransit buses. Users of paratransitbuses must apply for this service and provide appropriate documentation. For more information, contactLTD at (435) 752-2877. Logan Taxi Cab (435) 753-3663 Cache Valley Cab (435) 752-4555 The Cache Valley Limousine Airport Shuttle (435) 754-6400 provides shuttle service to and from the Salt Lake City International Airport.Are service animals allowed on campus?ADA defines a service animal as "any guide dog, signal dog, or any other animal trained to provideassistance to an individual with a disability." Service animals are welcome at USU and should beregistered with the DRC.Therapy Animals:Therapy animals are not protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, therapy animalsmay be allowed in some housing areas with appropriate documentation. Contact the DRC for a TherapyAnimal Application.What housing options are available to me? Can my disability-related needs beaddressed?Accessible housing is available at USU. Contact Housing and Dining Services at (435) 797-3113 for moreinformation about on-campus housing options. Students having specific disability-related needs mayrequest reasonable accommodations. The DRC will coordinate closely with Housing and Dining Servicesto address individual student needs.What kinds of financial assistance are available to me?USU students may qualify for a number of financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, andloans. Applications for these programs are available online from the Financial Aid Office.

The DRC also has a few competitive scholarships available as well. Please visit our scholarship page formore information.There may also be assistance from a number of other programs, including the Utah State Office ofRehabilitation. DRC counselors are happy to discuss financial aid options with students.What can I do if I am dissatisfied with services provided, or if I experiencediscrimination?Students are encouraged to discuss any concerns with their DRC counselor. She will be mostknowledgeable about your situation and intervene in your behalf if necessary.DRC Director and ADA Coordinator, Diane Baum will make every attempt to resolve problems informallythrough an interactive process or through the processes established by the Americans with DisabilitiesAct.Vice President for Student Services, Gary Chambers will meet with students individually to resolveproblems related to services and treatment. His office is located in the Taggart Student Center Room 220,(435) 797-1712The Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Office, located in room 115 of the Military Science building,(435) 797-1266 will review either formal or informal disability-related complaints following the processoutlined in Article VII, Section 4 of the USU Student Code.Although students are encouraged to try to resolve grievances within the campus, you also have the rightto file a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights at any time. Additional information on the Americans withDisabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act pf 1973 can be found online at http://www.adainformation.com/and at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website at http://eeoc.gov/ .What other supportive services are available for students at USU?Utah Assistive Technology Program (UATP)UATP is a division of the Center for Persons with Disabilities (CPD) at USU, and supports the AssistiveTechnology (AT) Laboratory , where devices are designed and built to meet the individual needs ofclients. The AT Lab trains students to design, use, and repair mobility devices such as wheelchairs andscooters. Some of these devices are available for short - term loan. The AT Lab also has a fully -equipped adapted computer laboratory , which offers the use of adaptive software and hardware toenable persons with disabilities to learn and use computer - based assistive technologies.UATP providesassistive technology training, information , and AT assessment and evaluation services. It alsoadministers the Assistive Technology Foundation , which provides low - interest loans for the purchase ofassistive technology. The Assistive Technology Lab is located in the Janet Quinney Lawson Building,(435) 797-0699. The UATP main office can be reached at (435) 797-3824.Emotional, Relationship, or Family Concerns: Counseling Center , Taggart Student Center 306, (435) 797-1012 Psychology Community Clinic , Education 413, (435) 797-3401 Bear River Mental Health Services , 90 East 200 North, (435) 752-0750 Student Health and Wellness Center , 850 East 1200 North, (435) 797-1660Intellectual/Academic Support:

Academic Resource Center , Taggart Student Center 305, (435) 797-1128 Multicultural Student Support Services, Taggart Student Center 309, 797-1733 Student Support Services , University Inn 103, 797-3372 Advising and Transfer Services, Taggart Student Center . 304, 797-3373Physical Activities: Informal Recreation: Basketball, racquetball, rock climbing wall, running, swimming, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, walking, wallyball, and weight lifting are offered. For more information about free time facilities, call (435) 797-1503. Club Sports: Clubs are offered for ballroom dance, baseball, fencing, hockey, karate, kayaking, lacrosse, masters swim, racquetball, rodeo, rugby, scuba, skiing, soccer, table tennis, tae kwon do, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, and water polo. Further information about sport clubs is available by calling (435) 797-7218. Intramural Sports: Students may participate in basketball, flag football, frisbee golf, golf, indoor and outdoor soccer, ultimate frisbee, racquetball, softball, table tennis, triathlon, tennis, turkey trot, volleyball, and wallyball. For more information about intramural sports, call (435) 797-1504. The Outdoor Recreation Center (ORC) includes a rental shop, an outdoor trips program, and alternative programs. Contact the ORC at (435) 797-3264. Common Ground Outdoor Adventures provides outdoor recreational opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities. Adaptive equipment is also provided. You may contact them at (435) 713-0288 or visit them at 290 North 400 East, Logan.Social Activities:ASUSU. helps keep students informed about campus events.Occupational Counseling:USU Career Services, located in University Inn 102, offers career and job search assistance.Financial Concerns:Financial counseling is available at: The Family Life Center, 493 North 700 East, Logan, (435) 797-7224. Womens Center, Taggart Student Center 315, (435) 797-1728 Financial Aid Office, TSC 106, (435) 797-0173Please feel free to contact the DRC with any other questions at:(435) 797-2444.[Back to Top]DRC HomeAbout the DRC

DRC StaffCurrent DRC StudentsProspective DRC StudentsFaculty & StaffBarrier Alert FormAgency SurveyAssessment SearchSearchContact InformationMailing Address0101 Old Main HillLogan, UT 84322-0101Phone: (435) 797-2444Toll-Free: (800) 259-2966Fax: (435) 797-0130E-mail UsImportant DatesClick here to go to Registrars list of dates

DRC policy & procedure handbook

by The Green Fire Agency on Nov 24, 2011

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DRC policy & procedure handbook Document Transcript