Special Needs Students

Dr. Anna Cicirelli, Dean of Upperclassmen in Academic Dean’s Office, serves as the Disability Services Coordinator for Day Session (CAS/SBA) students.  The College is committed to providing reasonable and appropriate accommodations. The College provides access to a wide range of services and programs to assist qualified students in reaching their potential, such as:

• Exam and Classroom Accommodations including extended time (time and a half); separate, proctored exam locations; reader services; use of a computer during exams; use of a tape recorder; enlargement of classroom materials / course documents, and books on tape when required;
• Advocates for Ability , a peers-helping-peers program providing students with a roster of tutors, readers, interpreters, student volunteer aides;
• Accessibility Tours of the campus and loan of keys/access cards for use of accessible routes;
• Academic Advisement : Individualized academic programming and effective course planning for the entire year. Weekly progress reports are conducted with the faculty, Dean and student regarding student progress through course and any needed modifications;
• Academic Services such as group and individual assistance in key areas of skill development, including time management, study skills, reading skills, and note taking skills at the CALL center;
• Personal and Group Support Services providing individual and group counseling on disability issues, academic choices, and employment/ career planning;
• Priority Registration : Students with specific disabilities are given priority status in registration and depending on disability classroom accommodation.
• Resource Library of print, audio, video and electronic materials on disability related topics and issues .

Students must register with the SPC Disability Services Coordinator to receive accommodations and/or services. The registration process involves the student's submission of all of the following:

1. A Self-identification Form and Waiver (this form is also available from the Dean’s Office)
2. Comprehensive documentation of the disability from the student's doctor or clinician, which must include:
   •  a diagnosis and description of the nature of the disability;
   •  duration (if temporary);
   •  limitations;
   •  recommendations for accommodations; and
   
3. A signed release form permitting Disability Services to speak with the doctor or clinician should there be any questions regarding the documentation.

Specific Learning Disability guidelines for the documentation of learning disabilities, as well as for Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), are available at the Dean’s Office.

Once registration is complete, Dean Hicks will review the documentation, determine the necessary and appropriate accommodations, and develop an accommodation plan in coordination with each student's school and department.

All forms are available from Disability Services. For further information, please contact the Office directly, 201-761-6032.