Rights and Responsibilities
Working With Your Disability Student Services (DSS) Office Staff
In most cases, DSS staff will initiate contact by sending a confidential letter identifying the student, the disability, and the types of accommodations requested. Sometimes, a student will self-identify and request accommodations directly from you. If this should happen, direct him or her to your DSS. Only DSS staff review confidential documentation, and information about a disability cannot be provided to faculty without the student’s written permission.
It is illegal to ask a student if they have a disability. What if you suspect a student has a disability? You have no legal requirement to do anything, however you could ask to meet with the student privately. Respectfully explain why you think the student may have a disability. Explain that you see discrepancy between oral and written work, or exam performance. Do not offer a diagnosis. Direct the student to your DSS.
