Overview
- In order to receive services through the Disability Resources and Services (DRS) office, the student must:
- self-identify him/herself to the Instructor and/or the Disability Resources and Services Office (DRS);
- bring all necessary documentation specifying the nature and extent of the disability as requested; and
- request the accommodation(s) he/she feels would assist in his/her successful completion of the given course(s) requirements.
- request all accommodations in a timely manner.
- In addition, an "Authorization to Release Confidential Information" form must be completed and signed by the student authorizing the DRS office to receive disability documentation, and/or share information with SMCC faculty, staff, or any other indicated agencies or persons.
- It is the student's responsibility to speak to the instructor concerning any requested accommodations. The DRS Office will work with the student to notify the instructor regarding approved accommodations, but the student may need to make special arrangements with the instructor.
- Although parents or others may be involved in supporting the student's academic, personal, and vocational goals, it is ultimately the student's responsibility to notify SMCC faculty, staff, and DRS in a timely manner regarding any accommodations and/or special assistance that may be required.
- Just like any student, students having accommodation needs can strive to be successful and are encouraged to be guided by the success strategies below:
- be committed to be in college as a serious goal and objective
- interview the instructors before enrolling in their courses
- be on time and attend classes regularly, participating as able to
- use consistent and effective study habits
- read the textbook and do the assigned homework
- take good notes and review/study them after & before the next class
- consult with the instructor when in doubt or if having difficulties
- Take advantage of the Tutors in the Learning Assistance Center1 (LAC) that can offer ideas, practice and encouragement in the task of studying, learning and being better prepared to acquire the upcoming material that will be presented in class. The LAC also provides assistance in developing improved note taking, study, and time management skills. There are a variety of valuable resources available.
- Relating to classmates, learning from them and sharing with them is an important aspect of college life. Students can learn from one another, and students with disabilities have similar interests, concerns and problems as other fellow students. Becoming part of study groups that gets together to review and prepare for the next day's class can be very useful; sometimes several heads together are better than only one.
- It is the student's responsibility to adhere to all current published policies, rules, and regulations as printed in the college catalog, class schedule, and/or student handbook. Copies are available at each college.
NOTE: It is the student's responsibility to notify SMCC/DRS of their needs, progress, and to attend all classes and appointments as required.
The Learning Assistance Center at South Mountain College is available to all students and currently is located in the LAC, in the Student Enrollment Services building (SES).