If you exceed your scope of responsibility and authority, even with the best of intentions, you may be opening the institution to legal action.
Don't give support, advice, or counsel, seek the representative they need from the org chart and introduce them to that representative who will further guide them, ensuring proper accommodation, attention, and service.
This section should me the importance of treated disabled students as people regardless of their disability. Show interest in them and their life and hobbies and do not inquire about their disability as it unless it is necessary to ensure their access. It is inappropriate to ask how a student because disabled and if their family is as well, etc. You also should not ask about disabilities in the admissions process. You can inform students on the physicality of the program if needed, but discussing access and accommodations should not happen until after an offer of admission. If the student will be unable to successfully complete the program with all the needed accommodations, the offer can be withdrawn.
I think its important to remember that a student with a disability is a student first, and a person with a disability second. Students with disabilities come to college for the same reasons everyone else does.
There is someone on campus that is designated to help with students with disabilities.
I didn’t know that it was illegal to ask someone during the admissions process if they have a disability. I’ll make sure not to do that
I learned that my role in supporting students with disabilities includes understanding legal obligations, providing necessary accommodations, and fostering an inclusive learning environment. I will apply this by ensuring students receive equal opportunities and addressing their needs with care and respect.
Once I had a student that has a disability. I asked myself, how is she going to survive nursing? I spoke to my administrator about it. His answer was to closely monitor her and assist when she ask for help. That student is now a successful Registered Nurse.
