Accommodations for Students

Disability Services has developed guidance and FAQs for instructors, to help address common questions and concerns for students receiving accommodations. 

What are my responsibilities when working with a student with a disability? 

1. Inform all students of your procedures for accessing accommodations at the beginning of each semester, preferably through a statement in the syllabus. Here you can find ETSU's Syllabus Statement.
2. Provide and arrange for accommodations addressed in the accommodations form in a timely manner. 
3. Maintain the same academic and behavior standards for all students. 

What are my responsibilities when a student has testing accommodations listed in their Student Accommodation Letters? 

Please note that professors do not not need to initiate test accommodations solely based on them being listed on the faculty accommodation form. Students may choose to not utilize the accommodations even though they are approved for them. If students choose to use their testing accommodations, they may make arrangements with you, or schedule their exams with Disability Services; preferably five days in advanced. Once a student schedules to take an exam with Disability Services you will receive notification and a proctoring checklist via email. You will complete the checklist to provide Disability Services with the requirements to follow for the exam.  

What are my responsibilities when a student has an accommodation for printed materials in alternate format? 

In an effort to make your courses accessible to individuals with disabilities, please ask publishers whether course materials are available in an accessible format when considering textbook adoption. Students who qualify for printed material in alternative format must submit their request to Disability Services as early as possible and allow at least four weeks for books to arrive. Additionally, students must provide Disability Services with a copy of their receipt confirming the purchase of their books. Disability Services is also available to assist faculty with the conversion of printed materials in alternative format (e.g., handouts, PowerPoint) with advanced notice. 

A student has approached me and is concerned that a particular student in class is receiving special treatment. What should I do? 

Explain to the student that:

1. All students are held to the same standards of academic performance. 
2. The issue cannot be discussed further because you must respect the confidentiality of all students.