Accessibility and Testing / UNIVERSITY STATEMENTS

1. Accessibility and Testing ensures that all information obtained from students or other sources is considered confidential and secured in locked cabinets. Neither disability nor the use of accommodations is noted on a student’s transcripts.
2. Student files can be accessed only by Accessibility and Testing staff members who have signed the Employee Confidentiality Agreement. One exception is disclosure to other university officials who have been determined to have a legitimate interest in the information.
3. Disability related documents created by Accessibility and Testing will not be released to an outside third party without the written consent of the student (FERPA).
4. Disability related documents obtained from a third party (i.e. medical records, diagnostic reports) will only be released to the student with the appropriate written authorization.
5. Accessibility and Testing may charge a fee for copying records.
6. Students have the right to review the contents of their files with an Accessibility and Testing staff member.
7. Accessibility and Testing will retain a copy of all disability records for seven years. After seven years the records are expunged.
8. The confidentiality policy remains in effect after graduation.

To foster independence in the students it serves, Accessibility and Testing seeks to:

1. Provide individual services to students with disabilities after students identify and register with Accessibility and Testing.
2. Publicize Accessibility and Testing services and availability.
3. Empower students with information about their rights and responsibilities.
4. Teach students how to advocate appropriately for their rights within the University system. Facilitate discussions to determine any reasonable accommodations with University units outside the classroom, including housing, campus transit, and parking services.
5. Provide students with letters for their professors outlining approved academic accommodations and encourage students to discuss these accommodations with faculty.
6. Encourage faculty and staff to interact directly with students regarding accommodations approved by Accessibility and Testing.
7. Educate the University community to help create an attitudinal milieu that is more conducive to student inclusion.
8. Gather student input regarding improved access on campus.
9. Involve students and relevant health care providers in a collaborative, cooperative process to assist in Accessibility and Testing’s determination of reasonable accommodations in the campus environment.