Once a person with a disability has registered, the documentation will be reviewed to determine the need for appropriate services and accommodations that are necessary and effective, and which do not compromise the academic standards of the college.
Like all other students, students with disabilities should select courses that take into account their own particular strengths and weaknesses.
Request for Accommodations
Students: An Accommodations and Service Request Form (PDF) must be completed and submitted to the office each semester. Accommodations are reviewed every semester to ensure that students are receiving appropriate and effective accommodations and services.
Employees: Otherwise qualified faculty and staff may request job accommodations for a documented disability or serious medical condition. An employee must be able to perform the essential functions of a job with or without accommodations. To request accommodations you must complete a Job Accommodation From by going to the Human Services website. Employees are welcome to come to the Disability Services Office to first confidnetially explore their concerns and discuss possible accommodations that may be apprropriate to their particular positon.
Prospective Employees: If you need acccommodations in the application process complete the Employment Accommodation Request Form from the HR website.
Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis considering an individual's limitations and the academic demands and responsibilities of residential life at Smith College.
Common Student Accommodations & Services
Common academic accommodations made by the college include:
- extended time allowed for examinations
- computer access for examinations
- distraction-reduced testing locations
- additional time for written assignments
- classroom note takers
- audio books or books in electronic format
- sign language interpreters
- housing and dietary accommodations
- in exceptional circumstances, a plan for a reduced course load
Student Involvement
Accommodations will be discussed with the student and will be arranged through the Office of Disability Services with significant involvement of the student. Professors are notified of necessary academic accommodations by the Office of Disability Services through a letter delivered by the student in order to initiate communication and collaboration.
Students are responsible for notifying the Office of Disability Services if difficulties arise during the course of the semester. Students must also work closely with the office when ongoing support services are being provided such as sign language interpreters, alternative format materials or transportation. Failure to keep in communication or adhere to reasonable expectation for responsible use of accommodations and services may result in suspension or termination of services.
Exclusions
Smith College does not provide testing for learning disabilities or ADHD, but Smith's student health insurance offers coverage for some of these costs. Please consult the student health insurance provider. We also do not provide specialized LD tutors, academic or personal coaching, or case management. Individuals who need this type of support will be referred to appropriate resources in the community to the extent that they are available.
Grievances
If you disagree with the final decision of the Disability Director or with a faculty member about your accommodations, please speak to your Class Dean to see if an informal resolution can be achieved. If you wish to file a formal grievance you may contact the Office of Institutional Diversity and Equity at 413-585-2141 and follow the college's procedures outlined on their website.
