Frequently Asked Questions
Do admissions requirements differ for students with disabilities?
No, admission requirements are the same for all students. Students with disabilities are assessed based on their academic achievements, potential for intellectual growth, and overall qualifications. The admissions process does not ask about disabilities, and it is up to the student to disclose any accommodation needs if they choose to do so.
How does Student Accessibility Services Evaluate and Respond to Requests for Academic Accommodations?
Student Accessibility Services (SAS) at St. Lawrence University engages in an individualized, interactive process to determine reasonable accommodations based on the student’s documentation and a personal interview. When necessary, SAS consults with faculty to understand essential course or program requirements, including any licensure standards. Students are required to complete all essential course requirements. Accommodations are not guaranteed in all cases—particularly if they would fundamentally alter the nature of the course or lower academic standards. Faculty should consult with SAS before making such determinations.
What are the responsibilities of SLU students with disabilities?
Students are responsible for:
1. Proactively identifying themselves as having a disability by contacting the SAS office.
2. Provide documentation that meets SLU’s Documentation Guidelines from a licensed and qualified medical or mental health provider to support their requests.
3. Requesting reasonable accommodations tailored to their specific needs.
4. Sending IEAP letters to faculty each semester as classes change to notify them of their accommodations.
5. Following the established procedures to ensure accommodations are in place.
6. Directly communicating their needs with SAS staff. Parents, support people, other SLU staff members or faculty cannot request accommodations or services on a student’s behalf.
Students should meet with SAS staff to discuss their accommodations. SAS staff will develop an Individualized Education Accommodation Plan (IEAP) for academic accommodations, which will be shared with faculty to implement in the classroom.
What are SLU's responsibilities?
St. Lawrence University provides a comprehensive program of services for students with disabilities. We aim to inform all relevant parties about available services and resources. Additionally, we have procedures in place to process accommodation requests in a reasonable and timely manner. We also prioritize maintaining the confidentiality of students' disability-related records.
What accommodations does SLU provide for students with disabilities?
St. Lawrence University provides a variety of reasonable accommodations to students based on their individual needs. These accommodations are designed to ensure equal access to all academic programs and activities.
What are the responsibilities of a faculty member?
Faculty members are responsible for:
- Maintaining confidentiality regarding students' disability status.
- Referring students who disclose disabilities to Student Accessibility Services.
- Ensuring that students who request accommodations have been properly connected with Student Accessibility Services.
- Granting reasonable accommodations and maintaining academic standards once accommodations are made.
At the collegiate level, not all accommodations listed on the IEAP letter will apply to ALL classroom/educational situations. Faculty with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact SAS to ensure that accommodations support both student access and academic integrity. St. Lawrence University is committed to providing equal access and reasonable academic adjustments, auxiliary aids, and services to qualified students with documented disabilities, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Faculty may also work privately with students to tailor accommodations that address the unique requirements of their courses.
What are some situations where an accommodation listed on the IEAP letter might NOT apply to my classroom?
Examples where assignment extensions may not apply include:
- When the assignment content will be discussed in class after the due date.
- When the assignment shapes future lectures.
- When the assignment is part of a group or scaffolded project.
Examples where flexible attendance may not apply include:
- Courses with required in-class participation or group work;
- Labs, clinicals, or performance-based classes with essential in-person components.
I am a parent/support person for a student with a disability at SLU – what is the SAS office able to communicate with me?
Release of Information Philosophy
SAS does not communicate with parents/guardians or providers beyond generalities without a signed Release of Information (ROI) form from the student.
The purpose of the ROI is to allow SAS staff to:
1) Disclose that we are working with the student
2) share basic procedural information,
3) Discuss specifics beyond program generalities with the person listed on the ROI. The individual indicated on the Information Release Consent form cannot request accommodations or appeal decisions on the student's behalf.
A completed Release of Information (ROI) does not imply that SAS will communicate solely with the parties listed on the form, nor does it permit the person(s) named to speak on the student’s behalf. Students at SLU are responsible for directly communicating their needs to our office.