Disability Support Services (DSS) at Central Washington University (CWU) was established to ensure that students with disabilities admitted to CWU are provided equal access to university programs, services and facilities. Appropriate/reasonable accommodations are determined for each student on an individual basis by DSS staff and are based on disability documentation. Students with disabilities requesting services through DSS are required to provide documentation from a qualified professional verifying the existence of the disabling condition and describing the affect of the disability on the student's ability to access the educational process. Academic adjustments/accommodations provided by DSS include, but are not limited to the following:

Early Registration
Print Materials in Alternative Formats
Note Taking and Lecture Recording
Adaptive and Assistive Technologies
Alternative Testing
Early Notification of Assignments
ASL Interpreters and Adaptive Equipment
Special Classroom Furniture
Priority Snow Removal
Elevator Outage
Substitution Policy
Housing Policy
Disability Parking
Attendance
Additional Activities and Programs

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) Early Registration Program provides students with specific disabilities and/or functional limitations an opportunity for priority in the registration process. Students who have physical or attentional limitations or who have psychological disabilities which are aggravated by stress are encouraged to register early in order to avoid class schedules which exacerbate the functional limitations of their disability/disabilities. Students who utilize textbooks in alternative formats or require sign language interpreters in their classes may be required to register early so they may submit accommodation requests to the DSS Office in a timely manner. Students who need to administer medications at specific times of the day may also be eligible for early registration. DSS relies on student cooperation to facilitate the registration process. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS and the student.

The student must provide the Director of DSS with documentation verifying the need for priority registration. Documentation may not be required of students with obvious physical disabilities.
Students must be in good financial standing with the University.

Students must obtain a DSS Academic Year Calendar and complete the registration process during the time frame indicated. Students who do not complete the registration process during DSS's early registration period will be required to register during their regularly scheduled registration time as assigned by the Office of Academic Services.
Students must complete on-line registration using SAFARI.

PLEASE NOTE:

Students unable to register on line due to their disability/disabilities may schedule an appointment to complete the registration process with assistance from Registrars Office and/or DSS staff.

DSS will work with the Registrars Office to identify dates for early registration for students of disability. These dates will appear on the DSS Academic Year Calendar. DSS will initiate appropriate computer coding to allow eligible students of disability to participate in early registration using SAFARI. DSS will notify students of changes in registration dates.

Students will receive confirmation of registration from the Registrars Office.

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Some students are eligible to receive their textbooks and other print materials on audiotape, in electronic text (E-Text), in Braille, or in large print. These accommodations are offered to students who are unable to read visually due to blindness/visual impairment, are unable to hold a book due to physical impairment, or whose disability makes effective visual processing of standard print impossible (i.e., learning disabilities which affect visual language processing or "visual/receptive language.")

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) Textbook Taping Program provides audio reproductions of required academic materials to eligible students of disability. DSS relies on student cooperation to facilitate tape recorded materials. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS and the student.

Students must provide the Director of DSS with documentation verifying the need for print materials in audiotape format. Students must register for free library service with the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library (WTBBL) to obtain a four-track tape player.** Students are strongly encouraged to become patrons of Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D) and record their RFB&D user number with DSS.**

Students must review the on-line class schedule and make course selections during the time frame indicated on the DSS Academic Year Calendar. It is recommended that students meet with their academic advisor prior to selecting classes. Taped textbook requests will be based on the tentative class schedules prepared at this time. Students are required to utilize DSS early preregistration (see DSS Responsibilities) in order to ensure registration in the courses for which taped texts have been requested.

Students are responsible for identifying all texts required on audio tape. It is recommended that students schedule an appointment to meet with the professor of the course to obtain this information. When professors have not selected a text or texts for a specific course, students should request that the professor sign the Alternative Format Request Form and indicate that the information requested is not available at this time. Students must complete a written request for the materials required on audio tape (Alternative Format Request Form). These requests must be submitted to the DSS Office within prescribed deadline dates as indicated on the DSS Academic Year Calendar. Requests must include title, author, copyright date, edition and publisher. Students requiring a reader or scribe may schedule an appointment to work with an DSS staff member for assistance in completing the Alternative Format Request Form.

Students may be asked to provide a current course syllabus which identifies required readings and provides a time line. Students submitting "late" requests for materials on audiotape are responsible for providing DSS with a copy of all materials to be recorded and a course syllabus indicating required readings and a time line. Priority is given to taping requests made on or before DSS prescribed deadline dates. Late requests are recorded on a "time available" basis. Students making post-deadline changes in taped textbook requests are responsible for providing DSS with a copy of all materials to be recorded, a course syllabus indicating required readings and a time line. Taping will proceed on a "time available" basis.

DSS will facilitate an early preregistration for all students eligible for the textbook taping program. DSS will conduct a bibliographic search with the tape libraries (RFB&D/WTBBL/CWU) to determine the availability of previously recorded materials. Available materials will be ordered by DSS.

When taped textbooks are requested on or before prescribed deadlines, DSS will work with the University Store to obtain textbooks for the purpose of taping and will have taped materials prepared prior to the time they are required for the course.

Students needing applications or assistance in establishing patronage with Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic and/or the Washington Talking Book and Braille Library are encouraged to schedule an appointment to meet with the Director of DSS or DSS's Disability Accommodation Specialist.

Policy established - 1988
Revised - 2005

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) E-Text Program provides students with visual impairments, visual language processing disorders, and specific types of physical disabilities an opportunity to obtain required print materials in E-Text format. DSS relies on student cooperation to facilitate this process. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS and the student.

Students must provide the Director of DSS with documentation verifying the need for print materials in alternative format.

Students must review the on-line class schedule and make course selections during the time frame indicated for early registration on the DSS Academic Year Calendar. It is recommended that students meet with their academic advisor prior to selecting classes. E-Text requests will be based on the tentative class schedules prepared at this time. Students are required to utilize DSS early preregistration (see DSS Responsibilities) in order to ensure registration in the courses for which E-Text materials have been requested. Students are responsible for identifying all textbooks required in alternative format. It is recommended that students schedule an appointment to meet with the professor of the course to obtain this information. When professors have not selected a text or texts for a specific course, students should request that the professor sign the Alternative Format Request Form and indicate that the information requested is not available at this time. Students must complete a written request for the materials required in E-Text (Alternative Format Request Form). These requests must be submitted to the DSS Office within prescribed deadline dates as indicated on the DSS Academic Year Calendar. Requests must include title, author, copyright date, edition and publisher. Students requiring a reader or scribe may schedule an appointment to work with a DSS staff member for assistance in completing the Alternative Format Request Form.

Students must purchase a print copy of the textbook and submit the original receipt to the DSS Office along with their Alternative Format Request Form. Students must agree to restrict the use of E-Text materials provided through DSS to their own study and refrain from sharing copies of these materials with other students.

DSS will facilitate early preregistration for all students eligible for the textbooks in E-Text format. DSS will contact the publisher of each textbook to determine the availability of E-Text. Available materials will be ordered by DSS. DSS will forward E-Text materials to students via Email. For security purposes, DSS will Email E-Text to CWU/Groupwise Email addresses only.

Important notes:

E-Text will not be available for all textbook selections. Students who request E-Text must indicate on their request form(s) whether they wish to receive textbooks in another alternative format (e.g., taped textbooks, braille) if/when E-Text is not available. DSS cannot guarantee the quality, accuracy, or consistency of format of E-Text provided by a publisher. Once a textbook in E-Text format is ordered, DSS is unable to return the original receipt for the textbook to the student.DSS cannot order E-Text materials for students who are not eligible for print materials in alternative formats.

Policy established - 2005

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) Braille Production/Print Enlargement Program provides reproductions of required academic materials in alternative formats to eligible students of disability. DSS relies on student cooperation to facilitate braille production and print enlargement of print materials. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS and the student.

Students must provide the Director of DSS with documentation verifying the need for print materials in alternative format.

Students must review the on-line class schedule and make course selections during the time frame indicated on the DSS Academic Year Calendar. It is recommended that students meet with their academic advisor prior to selecting classes.

Braille and large print text requests will be based on the tentative class schedules prepared at this time. Students are required to utilize DSS early preregistration (see DSS Responsibilities) in order to ensure registration in the courses for which texts in alternative format have been requested. Students are responsible for identifying all texts required in alternative format.

It is recommended that students schedule an appointment to meet with the professor of the course to obtain this information. When professors have not selected a text or texts for a specific course, students should request that the professor sign the request form and indicate that the information requested is not available at this time.

Students must complete a written request for the materials required in alternative format (e.g., Alternative Format Request Form). These requests must be submitted to the DSS Office within prescribed deadline dates as indicated on the DSS Academic Year Calendar. Requests must include title, author, copyright date, edition and publisher. Students requiring a reader or scribe may schedule an appointment to work with an DSS staff member for assistance in completing the Request Form.
Students may be asked to provide a current course syllabus which identifies required readings and provides a time line.

Students submitting "late" requests for materials in alternative format are responsible for providing, DSS with a copy of all materials to be produced and a course syllabus indicating required readings and a time line. Priority is given to requests made on or before DSS prescribed deadline dates. Late requests are produced on a "time available" basis. Students making post-deadline changes to requests are responsible for providing DSS with a copy of all materials to be produced, a course syllabus indicating required readings and a time line. Production will proceed on a "time available" basis.

DSS will facilitate an early preregistration for all students eligible to receive print materials in alternative format. When print materials in alternative format are requested on or before prescribed deadlines, DSS will work with the University Store to obtain textbooks for the purpose of braille and/or large print production and will make every attempt to have materials prepared prior to the time they are required for the course.*

When print materials are not made available to DSS in a timely manner, it may be difficult to produce braille quickly enough to meet the needs of the student. In these cases, DSS - will audiotape required print materials.

Policy established - 1998
Revised - 2005

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) Notetaking/Lecture Recording Program provides access to course lectures for students with disabilities that affect their ability to take lecture notes. DSS relies on student cooperation to facilitate the notetaking/lecture recording process. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS and the student.

The student must provide the Director of DSS with documentation verifying the need for notetakers/lecture recording. Documentation may not be required of students with obvious physical disabilities.

Students must inform their professor(s) of their need to tape record the lecture or utilize a notetaker.

If a notetaker is required, students must work with their professors to identify a classmate who is willing to share his/her lecture notes. If professors are unable to identify a volunteer notetaker, students are encouraged to notify the Director of DSS that their need for a notetaker has not been met.

Students who utilize notetaking assistance due to an inability to write or to accommodate learning and/or attention deficits must attend all classes and attempt to take notes to the best of their ability. Failure to do so may result in termination of the accommodation.

DSS will loan tape recorders and cassettes to students wishing to tape record lectures. (This is contingent upon the availability of equipment and supplies.) DSS will provide NCR paper (notetaking paper) or arrange to have lecture notes photocopied.

Upon student request, the Director of DSS will meet with a professor or class to help facilitate a volunteer notetaker. (This will occur only after the professor has made a good faith effort to facilitate the accommodation.) If attempts to find a volunteer notetaker fail, DSS will arrange to have a notetaker attend the student's class.

CWU faculty will identify a qualified volunteer notetaker. If attempts to find a volunteer notetaker fail, professors must notify the Director of DSS that the student's request for accommodation has not been met. CWU faculty who do not wish to utilize volunteer notetakers will work with their department chairs and/or deans to identify a funding source for hiring paid notetakers. DSS is willing to assist the faculty in identifying a qualified paid notetaker.

Policy established - 1988
Revised - 1998

We recommend the student and the note taker agree upon how the notes will be exchanged. Most students simply obtain a copy of their notes from the note taker at the end of each class period. A few students arrange to pick up copies of notes from their professors or in the DSS Office. Students who wish to receive their notes anonymously are instructed to meet with the Director of Disability Support Services to discuss possible approaches.

Students with visual impairments who require notes in large print may request that Disability Support Services enlarge their class notes. Students must deliver the materials to be enlarged to the DSS Office and provide information about the size of font needed. Whenever possible, large print copies of notes will be made while the student waits. However, in some cases, DSS will require time to produce notes in large print. Students needing this accommodation should remember to allow DSS time to prepare notes in large print format. Students may also make use of CCTVs (Closed Circuit Televisions) available in the DSS Office and the CWU Library to enlarge notes for review.

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The term "adaptive or assistive equipment/technologies" describes software and/or equipment which can be used to minimize the functional limitations of a disability/disabilities.

Examples of adaptive equipment which would be provided by CWU include adaptations in CWU computer labs (i.e., large monitors, print enlargement software, screen readers, trackballs/joy sticks, single-handed keyboards, etc.), wireless FM transmitter/receiver units which can be used by students with hearing impairments to improve verbal communication in the classroom, closed circuit TVs (print enlargement technology), and access to four track tape players. A Jaws screen reading system, WYNN literacy system, Inspiration concept mapping system, and Dragon speech recognition system are available in the DSS Adaptive Technology Labs. Students registered with DSS may receive training and schedule times to work with these programs.

PLEASE NOTE:
Personal devices, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, glasses, lap top or home computers, etc., are the responsibility of the student.

Each student computer lab includes at least one physically accessible work station and basic assistive software programs, such as print enlargement. Accessible computer work stations, which are also equipped with literacy software, speech recognition software, and concept mapping software, are available in the DSS Office and the DSS Access Technology Lab. Wireless FM transmitter/receiver systems, CCTVs, four track tape players, etc., are available through Disability Support Services. Specific requests for adaptive technology/equipment are addressed on an as needed basis.

DSS adaptive software licenses are restricted to use on CWU computers only and cannot be installed on student's personal computers. Students who wish to purchase adaptive technologies for their home computers may request assistance from the Coordinator for Adaptive Technology Services in selecting compatible systems. Students who wish to utilize DSS adaptive computer technology to complete homework assignments may reserve time on computer stations located in the DSS Office and/or DSS Access Technology Lab. However, students who require adaptive technologies to complete exams will be given first priority, students for whom the specific adaptive technology is considered an accommodation will be given second priority, and students who find the systems helpful, but for whom the specific adaptive technology is not considered an necessary accommodation for their disability/disabilities, are given last priority.

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) Adaptive/Assistive Technologies Program provides the opportunity for all CWU students with disabilities registered with DSS to receive training on and access to specialized equipment and software. Based on specific functional limitations as identified in each student's documentation, some students are offered "priority use" of these technologies. Students who wish to make use of adaptive/assistive technologies available through DSS must commit to participation in the training process. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS and the student.

To establish "priority access" to DSS adaptive/assistive technologies, the student must provide the Director of DSS with documentation verifying the need for specific types of technological interventions and/or support. To establish "general access" to DSS adaptive/assistive technologies, the student must be registered with DSS as a CWU student with a disability.

Students must schedule an appointment with the DSS Coordinator for Adaptive Technology Services for a "needs assessment" and technology demonstration. Students must be willing to commit time and effort to the technology training process and must schedule and attend training sessions as needed. Students on the Ellensburg campus must work with the DSS Office Manager to arrange access to the DSS Adaptive Technology Lab.

DSS will make adaptive/assistive computing equipment and software programs available in the DSS Adaptive Technology Lab and other locations on the Ellensburg campus. DSS will make adaptive/assistive computing equipment and software programs available at the CWU extension program centers as needed. DSS will provide training on adaptive/assistive equipment and software programs.

CWU faculty will allow qualified CWU students with disabilities to make appropriate use of DSS adaptive/assistive equipment and software programs.

Important Notes:

Students who establish "priority access" to DSS adaptive/assistive technologies will receive preferential access over students for whom the technologies do not constitute an accommodation for the functional limitations of their disabilities. DSS adaptive/assistive software programs are licensed and cannot be loaded on student's personal computers. Students who wish to purchase adaptive/assistive software programs for their home computers may receive technical assistance/advice from the DSS Coordinator for Adaptive Technology Services regarding compatible systems.

Policy established - 2006

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) Office offers the Alternative Testing Service to CWU faculty who request assistance in providing alternative testing accommodations to eligible students of disability. DSS relies on student and faculty cooperation to facilitate alternative examinations. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS, the faculty and the student.

Students must provide the Director of DSS with documentation verifying the need for flexible exams/alternative testing Procedures.

Students must schedule an appointment to meet with the professor of each class in which they wish to utilize flexible examination procedures. Students must provide each professor with a copy of their Confirmation of Eligibility for Academic Adjustments. Students are encouraged to notify DSS if professors plan to administer their own exams utilizing alternative testing procedures.

If professors choose to have their class exams administered in the DSS Office:

Faculty must meet with each student to discuss alternative testing needs.

Faculty who wish to utilize DSS's Alternative Testing Service must:

• Complete and return the "ATS Service Agreement and Proctoring Instructions" Form, clearly indicating the date and time of day the exam will be administered. FAX, deliver or Email (dssrecept@cwu.edu ) exams to the DSS Office prior to test time.
• Exams administered throughout the academic quarter: Faculty are encouraged to furnish the DSS Office with a syllabus which includes course exam dates for the entire quarter. Faculty who choose to notify DSS of exam dates as the quarter progresses must notify the DSS Office of upcoming exams at least one day prior to the test.
• Final exams: Faculty are encouraged to confirm final exam dates and times at the beginning of the quarter. Faculty who are unable to confirm final exam dates and times at the beginning of the quarter must notify the DSS Office of upcoming final exams during the week prior to finals week. Due to space limitations, DSS may be unable to accommodate testing requests from faculty who do not request testing services for their students the week prior to finals week.

Faculty administering their own exams must provide all required alternative testing conditions as identified in the student's Confirmation of Eligibility for Academic Adjustments upon request.

Upon the request of the faculty, DSS will provide detailed information about appropriate/reasonable testing conditions for individual students.

When exams are administered in the DSS Office:

DSS will administer exams at the time identified by the professor as indicated in the ATS Service Agreement and Proctoring Instructions Form.

DSS will be responsible for protecting the integrity of the examination process.

DSS will provide all required testing conditions as identified in the student's accommodation plan and according to testing instructions provided by the professor.

DSS will return exams to each professor's department office as soon as possible and within four hours of the completion of the exam.

Policy established - 1988
Revised - 2004
Revised - 2007

Students who test in DSS facilities agree to:

• Follow all University and DSS policies/Procedures.
• Meet with the professor of each class in which testing accommodations are needed in a timely manner and, during that meeting, provide the professor with a Confirmation Form.
• Discuss with each professor the manner in which testing accommodations will be delivered;

If the professor chooses to utilize DSS's Alternative Testing Service -

• Test at the time approved by each professor and arrive ON TIME for each scheduled exam;
• Leave all personal items (backpacks, coats, hats, purses, cellular phones, etc.) with DSS clerical staff. These items will be placed in a secure location.
• Take only those materials authorized by the professor into the testing site.

Tests must be taken at the same time the class is testing unless:

• Class scheduling conflicts will not allow sufficient test time.
• Multiple exams create scheduling conflicts.

Please note that alternate test times/days MUST be approved by the professor of the course and written confirmation from the professor MUST be on file with DSS.

Students testing in DSS facilities agree to report on time for all scheduled exams. In most cases, time-and-one-half will be allowed for students to complete exams. Exams will begin at the time scheduled and end at a specific time as determined by the length of the class plus 50% additional time. Students who arrive late for exams will not be allowed additional time to compensate for tardiness. DSS will proceed as instructed by the professor.

Students arriving early for exams must receive permission from their professors in order to begin testing early. Exams may not be previewed.

Students should plan to remain at the testing site until the exam is complete. *Preparation is the key - visit the restroom prior to exam time, bring something to drink and/or a snack if necessary.

A DSS employee must return all exams in order to obtain a receipt for departmental records.

DSS must maintain a fully operational office between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Auditory distractions in testing rooms will be minimal. However, students who are extremely sensitive to noise must be prepared to utilize all available aids (i.e., sound muffling head sets, white noise, fan, music) to further decrease distraction.

Students testing in DSS facilities agree to report on time for all scheduled exams. In most cases, time-and-one-half will be allowed for students to complete exams. Exams will begin at the time scheduled and end at a specific time as determined by the length of the class plus 50% additional time. Students who arrive late for exams will not be allowed additional time to compensate for tardiness. If/when students do not arrive in the DSS Office within one hour of the scheduled test start time, the exam will be returned to the professor. Students must then; 1) contact the professor to determine whether the exam may be rescheduled, and, 2) establish new testing times in the DSS Office.

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Early notification of assignments provides students with specific disabilities and/or functional limitations an opportunity to obtain additional time to complete assignments without adversely impacting end-of-the quarter obligations. Students with disabilities which affect organizational skills, the ability to read and/or write, or who have chronic health or psychiatric conditions that can affect the ability to attend class and complete assignments, are eligible to receive specific information from their professors about assignments prior to the time that those assignments are explained to the class as a whole. Students must recognize that it is inappropriate to request additional time on the day an assignment is due. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of the student, DSS, and the faculty:

The student must provide the Director of DSS documentation verifying the need for early notification of assignments.

Students must schedule an appointment to meet with the professor of each class in which they wish to obtain early information about assignments. During that meeting, students must discuss their need for additional time to complete assignments and request specific information which will allow them to begin the necessary research, reading, writing, etc.

Students must provide each professor with a copy of their Confirmation of Eligibility for Academic Adjustments verifying the need for early notification of assignments.

DSS will provide eligible students with a Confirmation of Eligibility for Academic Adjustments which identifies "Early Notification of Assignments" as an appropriate academic accommodation.

Faculty will provide students with specific instructions which will allow them to begin the necessary research, reading, writing, etc., required to complete assignments by prescribed class deadlines. Often, this means that professors must explain course concepts and assignment requirements prior to the time that the class as a whole receives this information.

Policy established - 1988
Revised - 2000

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The Disability Support Services (DSS) Interpreter/Adaptive Equipment Program provides access to course lectures and other activities for students who are hard of hearing or deaf. DSS relies on student, Interpreter/Transcriber, and faculty cooperation to facilitate these accommodations. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS, the Interpreter/Transcriber, the professor and the student.

The student must provide the Director of DSS documentation verifying the need for a sign language Interpreter, Typewell technology, or adaptive equipment (e.g., Wireless FM transmitter/receiver).

Students must notify DSS of their needs in a timely manner. This is particularly important when sign language Interpreters and/or Typewell Transcribers are required. Students must provide a class schedule to the DSS Office immediately after registration. Interpreting/Typewell services on the first day of class are not guaranteed for students who do not submit their class schedules to DSS.

Students must inform their professor(s) of their need to utilize an Interpreter, Typewell Transcriber, or FM equipment by providing each instructor with a copy of the Confirmation of Eligibility for Academic Adjustments.

Students who utilize sign language Interpreters and/or Typewell technology must attend all classes and must arrive on time to classes.

• Students who must miss class due to illness are expected to notify their Interpreter(s)/Transcriber(s) and DSS at least one hour before class begins to avoid an "unexcused" absence.
• If students are more than 10 minutes late for a one hour class, the Interpreter/Transcriber will leave class and report to the DSS Office for reassignment. Students are expected to contact the Director of DSS after conclusion of that day's classes to discuss attendance.
• Students who anticipate a planned absence from class must notify their Interpreter(s)/Transcriber(s) and the DSS Office a minimum of 48 hours prior to class time to avoid an "unexcused" absence.
• Interpreting/Transcribing services will be automatically suspended when a student has three unexcused absences from class. Students with three unexcused class absences must meet with the Director of DSS to reestablish the accommodation.

Failure to follow the Procedures outlined above may result in suspension or termination of the accommodation.

• Interpreters must attend all classes and must arrive on time to classes.
  
• Interpreters/Transcribers who must miss class due to illness are expected to identify a replacement (when possible) and notify the DSS Office by 8:00am on the day to be missed.
• Interpreters/Transcribers are expected to arrive on time to all scheduled classes and other interpreting/transcribing assignments.
• If a scheduled class is canceled or the student(s) is/are absent, Interpreters/Transcribers are expected to report to the DSS Office for reassignment.
• Interpreters/Transcribers who anticipate a planned absence are expected to identify a replacement and notify their student(s) and the DSS Office a minimum of 48 hours prior to class time.
• Interpreters/Transcribers must keep all assignment-related information strictly confidential.
• Interpreters will "render the message faithfully", conveying the content and spirit of the speaker, using language most readily understood by the person(s) they serve.
• Interpreters/Transcribers must not attempt to counsel or advise, interject personal opinions, or "tutor° students.
• Interpreters/Transcribers will accept assignments using discretion with regard to skill, setting, and the consumer(s) involved.
• Interpreters/Transcribers are expected to maintain high professional standards in compliance with the code of ethics.

DSS will identify and hire qualified American Sign Language Interpreters and Typewell Transcribers to accommodate the needs, of students.

DSS will assign ASL Interpreters and Typewell Transcribers based on availability and qualifications.

CWU faculty will work cooperatively with students utilizing adaptive equipment and/or ASL Interpreters/Typewell Transcribers to ensure effective communication for students.

Typewell Technology is: not available to every student for every class. The Director of DSS will prioritize Typewell assignments based on student need and the content of the course for which Typewell has been requested.

Interpreters/Transcribers are not experts in every subject. Students should direct questions to the Professor, not the Interpreter/Transcribers.

Professors should not address questions, comments, etc., to the Interpreter/Transcribers. Speak directly to the student - in this context, the Interpreter/Transcriber serves as a means of communication only.

Students should not talk to the Interpreter while he/she is interpreting with the exception of asking for repetition or clarification. If students have difficulty understanding the Interpreter's signs they should speak with the interpreter after class. If the problem is not solved, contact the Director of DSS.

Students needing interpreting services or Typewell technology outside the classroom must submit a request to he DSS Office at least three work days prior to the activity/event. These activities/events must be related to college activities.

Policy established - 1988
Revised - 2003

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Disability Support Services (DSS) Special Classroom Furniture policy and placement Procedures are designed to ensure that students with physical impairments are provided with a classroom environment that is appropriate to their needs. DSS relies on cooperation of the student, faculty, and Facilities Management personnel to ensure that special furniture is available to qualified students with disabilities. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS, the student, the faculty, and Facilities Management Personnel.

Students must provide the Director of DSS documentation verifying the need for special furniture in the classroom. Documentation may not be required of students with obvious physical disabilities.

Students must register for classes during the registration period for continuing students or, if registration is completed after that time, students must provide DSS with a schedule of classes.

Students must notify DSS of any class schedule changes and additions OR changes in classrooms, class meeting times, and/or days.

On or about the tenth week of each quarter (after the registration period for continuing students), DSS will obtain class schedules for the following quarter for students who are eligible for this accommodation.

DSS will provide Facilities Management with a report which identifies the type of furniture required in each classroom.

DSS will procure the appropriate furniture and will tag that furniture to indicate that, 1) it is the property of ADA Affairs and Student Assistance, 2) it has been placed in the classroom to accommodate a student of disability, and, 3) it should not be removed or relocated without consulting DSS.

Prior to the beginning of classes each quarter, Facilities Management personnel will place special furniture in classrooms according to the parameters outlined in the DSS Special Furniture report.

After classes have ended each quarter, Facilities Management personnel will retrieve DSS furniture and return it to storage.

Facilities Management personnel will contact DSS to report problems with placement of special furniture.

Faculty will refrain from removing or relocating special furniture which has been placed in the classroom to accommodate a student of disability.

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Disability Support Services (DSS) Priority Snow Removal policy and Procedures are designed to ensure that students with disabilities which affect mobility are provided an equal opportunity to travel to and from classes on campus during seasons of inclement weather. DSS relies on cooperation of the student and University Facilities Management personnel to facilitate the priority snow removal process. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS, the student, and Facilities Management Personnel.

Students must provide the Director of DSS documentation verifying the need for priority snow removal. Documentation may not be required of students with obvious physical disabilities.

Students must utilize the campus map, prepared by Facilities Management and provided by Disability Support Services, which identifies priority snow removal routes.

Students must plan paths of travel which make use of the routes identified on the priority snow removal map. This may require that students use routes which they would not use at times when snow has not created a barrier to travel.

Students must call the "Access Hotline" (963-3000) to report barriers resulting from snowfall. The Hotline number provides immediate contact with CWU's Facilities Management Department.

Students must notify the Director of DSS if/when reported barriers are not removed in a timely manner.

DSS will work with Facilities Management to develop, maintain, and disseminate campus maps which clearly identify priority snow removal routes.

The DSS Director will contact Facilities Management in response to reports of snow-related barriers which are not removed in a timely manner.

Facilities Management will develop and maintain a campus map which identifies priority snow removal routes.

Facilities Management personnel will clear snow from priority routes before dispatching equipment and crews to non-priority routes.

Facilities Management personnel will clear paths of travel from building to building, automatic door to automatic door, and will be cognizant of additional access barriers (stairs, etc.) in selecting routes to be cleared.

Facilities Management personnel will contact DSS to report problems with snow removal.

Policy established - 1988
Revised - 2003

It is important for students who plan to attend Central Washington University to be aware of common winter weather conditions in this area. Snow can be expected as early as October and may continue into April. Although priority snow removal is helpful, during periods of heavy/continuous snowfall, students with mobility or visual impairments will undoubtedly experience difficulties with travel on campus. In addition, priority snow removal efforts are focused on the main campus and do not extend to city sidewalks, streets and personal walkways/driveways.

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Disability Support Services (DSS) Elevator Outage policy and response Procedures are designed to ensure that students with disabilities that affect mobility and/or vision are provided an equal opportunity to attend classes when elevator outages create temporary physical barriers to access. DSS relies on cooperation of the student, faculty, department personnel, and Facilities Management to ensure that continuous access to classes is maintained. The following Procedures identify the responsibilities of DSS, the student, and Facilities Management.

Students must provide the Director of DSS documentation verifying the need for this accommodation. Documentation may not be required of students with obvious physical disabilities.

Students must register for classes during the registration period for continuing students or, if registration is completed after that time, students must provide DSS with a schedule of classes.

Students must notify DSS of any class schedule changes and additions OR changes in classrooms, class meeting times, and/or days.

On or about the tenth week of each quarter (after the registration period for continuing students), DSS will obtain class schedules for the following quarter for students who are eligible for this accommodation. When elevator outages are reported to DSS in a timely manner, DSS will proceed as follows:

STUDENTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS will be notified by telephone whenever possible so that they may be prepared to locate stairwells.

STUDENTS WITH MOBILITY IMPAIRMENTS WHO ARE NOT WHEELCHAIR USERS will be contacted by telephone whenever possible to determine whether stair climbing is feasible. If the student indicates that stair climbing is not possible, DSS will arrange to move inaccessible class(es) to accessible locations.

STUDENTS WITH MOBILITY IMPAIRMENTS WHO ARE WHEELCHAIR USERS will be contacted by telephone whenever possible. DSS will automatically arrange to move inaccessible class(es) to accessible locations.

Whenever possible, faculty and other department personnel will be notified in advance if a class must be moved to an accessible location.

When it is not possible to move classes due to the specialized nature of facilities and when all other options for access have been exhausted and time permits, DSS will contact Facilities Management to request deployment of the stairclimber.

When elevator outages are not reported to DSS in a timely manner, it may be impossible to contact students, move classes, or deploy the stairclimber. Under these conditions, DSS will arrange to record lectures for students who are unable to attend class(es). Professors will be asked to assist students in obtaining missing information, materials, and/or assignments resulting from the inability to attend class.

When an elevator malfunction or other emergency necessitates emergency building evacuation University Police will respond (per Evacuation Procedures/1988), assess the situation, and make arrangements for evacuation of mobility impaired students. University Police Officers will notify Facilities Management when the stairclimber is needed to accomplish evacuation.

Upon receipt of notification that all alternative measures for emergency evacuation or to provide classroom access have failed, Facilities Management will respond as quickly as possible.

Policy established - 1988
Revised - 1997

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Central Washington University's (CWU) Policy on Reasonable Accommodation for Students with Disabilities (CWU Policy Manual 2-2.2.2.2) states that a qualified student with a disability is one who: "Is able to perform and complete the essential elements of the course, program, or activity with or without accommodation."
Further, the policy defines "essential elements" as: "...the key skills, knowledge, or abilities that the program/course is designed to teach the student" and instructs academic departments to identify the essential elements for each academic program/course.
If/when a student with a disability is unable to complete the essential elements of a course, program, or activity due to the functional limitations caused by his/her disability, the student may request a meeting with the Director of Disability Support Services and the professor of the course and/or Chair of the department. The purpose of this meeting is to, 1) determine whether the course, program, or activity is "essential", 2) discuss whether substitution would be considered a reasonable accommodation for the individual student, and, 3) identify possible activity or course substitutions.
If it is determined that the course, program, or activity is "essential" and is not discriminatory against students with disabilities and it is determined that substitution is a reasonable accommodation for the individual student, the DSS Director, the student, the professor and/or department Chair will attempt to identify a substitute for the course, program, or activity which will provide the student with the "key skills, knowledge, or abilities that the program/course is designed to teach the student."
If no substitute which will provide the student with the "key skills, knowledge, or abilities that the program/course is designed to teach the student" is available, and/or if substitution will result in a "fundamental alteration to the nature of the course or program" the request for substitution will be denied.

The student must submit a request for consideration of substitution to the Director of DSS and must participate in discussions regarding this request.

The DSS Director is responsible for scheduling a meeting with the student, the professor and/or the department Chair. During this meeting the DSS Director will provide technical assistance and advice based on state and Federal legislation and court findings.

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Requests for special housing accommodations and/or exceptions to Central Washington University's (CWU) freshman residency and/or other housing policies due to health impairments or other disabilities are carefully evaluated. If disability documentation supports the requested accommodation or exception, the Director of Disability Support Services (DSS) will notify University Housing and verify the appropriateness of the request based on Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) eligibility criteria.

1. Documentation of the disability must be sent to the Director of Disability Support Services. At the same time, a written request for the accommodation/exception should be submitted to University Housing and copied to DSS.
2. Documentation must be provided by a "qualified medical professional" (e.g., physician, psychiatrist, psychologist) and must include the following information:
• A description of the "nature and extent" of the disability/disabilities (e.g., the diagnosis and the severity of the condition);
• Information about what tests and/or records were used the make the diagnosis;
• Information about the "functional limitations" caused by the disability/disabilities;
• The specific accommodation(s)/exception(s) recommended and how those accommodation(s)/exception(s) will address the functional limitations caused by the disability;
• The expected duration, stability, or progression of the condition;
• Information about prescribed medications and the side effects of these medications (if needed to support the requested accommodation/exception);
• The credentials of the diagnosing professional.

A one-line letter or prescription pad statement is not adequate to establish eligibility for accommodation/exception under the ADA. The cost of documentation is borne by the student.
3. For new students, requests for housing accommodations/exceptions should be submitted along with the application for housing. All requests for housing accommodations/exceptions should be submitted a minimum of six weeks prior to the beginning of the quarter. Late requests significantly limit the University's ability to respond.
4. The Director of DSS will review documentation submitted and may request that the student and/or medical professional provide additional information and/or clarification. Once all necessary information is gathered, the DSS Director will make appropriate recommendations to University Housing.
5. Documentation will be stored in DSS confidential files.

1. Severity of the condition
• Does the condition make physical access accommodations necessary in order to allow the student "equal access" to his/her residence hall or apartment? Is the impact of the condition life threatening if the request is not met?


2. Feasibility and availability
• Is space available that meets the student's needs? Can space be adapted to provide the requested configuration without creating a safety hazard (electrical load, emergency egress, etc.)? Are there other effective methods or housing configurations which would achieve similar benefits as the requested configuration?
• How does meeting this request impact housing commitments to other students?

Applying for housing and submitting requests for housing accommodations/exceptions early is extremely important. Central Washington University will do it's best to accommodate students with disabilities who choose to live in University-owned apartments or in CWU residence halls beyond the time they are required by policy. However, since these students have the option of living in off-campus facilities, accommodations may not be available at the same level as they are for students who are required to live on campus by policy. Students are encouraged to assess whether University-owned apartments will meet their personal housing requirements prior to signing a rental agreement. Individuals who require the assistance of a personal care attendant are expected to make their own arrangements for attendant care and are responsible for the cost of this support. The University is not obligated to provide private rooms for students whose disabilities affect focus, concentration, or distractibility as long as quiet study areas are available elsewhere on campus. Students with attentional disabilities who require a distraction-free study area may request the use of a DSS soundproof Library study carrel.

1. the animal provides a necessary service to the student with the disability, and,
2. the animal is trained to provide that specific service.

The owner of the service animal is responsible for the animal's care and for ensuring that the animal behaves appropriately while on the CWU campus. The owner of the service animal is held financially responsible for property damage caused by the animal Other animals, such as companion, therapy, emotional support, comfort and "psychiatric service" animals that are not specially trained to perform a disability-related service, may not be allowed in CWU residence halls and/or University-owned apartments. The decision to allow or disallow Companion Animals is made on an individual basis by the Director of DSS and is based on detailed information provided by the student's medical provider.

Housing accommodation/exception requests should be sent to:

Documentation of disability should be sent to:

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Students who have a permanent, State issued disability parking permit/license plate and a campus parking permit can use any available parking space on the campus (does not include loading zones, no parking and/or restricted areas).

Students who acquire temporary disabilities or who are in the process of obtaining a State issued disability parking permit may arrange for temporary disability parking on campus through Disability Support Services.

It is important for students with severe mobility limitations who plan to attend Central Washington University to be aware that the CWU campus is restricted to pedestrian traffic. Parking lots are located on the outskirts of the campus and no cross campus shuttle or transportation service is available. Central Transit, CWU's city-wide shuttle service, provides CWU students with free, accessible transportation to many downtown locations.

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• Disability Awareness Week in the month of May
• ABLE, student organization
• Problem-solving

CWU operates a TRIO Grant called the Student Support Services (SSS) Program which provides academic and career advising, and free tutoring to students who are accepted as participants in the program. Students with disabilities are a targeted population to receive these services. For more information on the SSS Grant Program, please call Neil McFarlane, Director of the SSS Program, at (509) 963-2026. CWU's Student Health and Counseling Center will assess CWU students for Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder.

Career Development Services works with CWU students with disabilities to provide assistance in:

• Selecting a major
• Obtaining an internship
• Preparation for employment: help with resume preparation, assistance with interviewing techniques, and/or
• Graduate school placement

Services NOT provided:

• Tutoring or individualized instruction is not considered a reasonable accommodation at the Postsecondary level and is not available to CWU students with disabilities unless they are participants in special programs which include tutoring support (i.e., Student Support Services, Athletics).
• Personal aides or attendants
• Personal devices or equipment
• Diagnostic testing for a Learning Disability
• Typing services
• Transportation - exceptions include class-related activities (i.e., field trips) and University-sponsored events for which transportation is provided to all participants.