SUPPORT
FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Thomas College, although
it has no organized academic programs for individuals with disabilities, is
committed to providing academic accommodations and access to College facilities
as needed.
A student who needs
supportive services must provide the Vice President for Student Affairs with a
recent professional evaluation that identifies the disability, describes the
challenges that exist because of the condition, and recommends appropriate and
reasonable modifications. The student should include any helpful information,
such as the transition plan prepared by high-school support services. (More
specific information about policies and documentation is available from the
Student Affairs office.) These materials are confidential
and will not be released without the student’s permission. Once the
documentation is approved, a student will receive assistance through the
appropriate college offices; in general, assistance is coordinated by the Vice
President for Student Affairs.
Accommodations for students with physical disabilities
include classroom assignments and housing that ensure students’ access to and
participation in academic and residential life. Students with learning
disabilities are entitled to “reasonable accommodations” that allow students to
participate in the regular program of study.
Individual
needs and proper consideration for the integrity of Thomas College programs of
study determine all accommodations. Every student is expected to meet the
standards for passing Thomas College courses, and, accordingly, every student
at Thomas is encouraged to take advantage of tutoring services as well as
individual assistance provided by instructors during office hours. In addition,
students with documented disabilities who have requested assistance may be
entitled to other accommodations (determined by the student and the Vice
President for Student Affairs in consultation with course instructors). These
may include extended time on examinations, alternative exam formats, use of
tape recording, special seating arrangements, a separate room for examinations,
etc. Accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis.
Students benefit most when they actively participate in
seeking and acquiring necessary assistance. It is important that students
inform the Student Affairs office of their needs, provide timely information
and documentation, and comply with deadlines and agreements throughout the
accommodation process. The College welcomes the opportunity to assist students
and will act in a supportive and timely fashion so that students can
successfully complete their academic programs.
For more information, please call (207) 859-1243 (Student
Affairs office).
