The Office of Accessibility Resource and Service has recently uploaded a suggested statement for inclusion in class syllabi.
Faculty members are encouraged to include a statement to inform students of the availability of reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. This statement makes it clear that students must document their need for accommodations with Accessibility Resources & Service before any accommodations can be implemented.
This relieves faculty of the responsibility of obtaining documentation, determining if the request is appropriate, and storing confidential medical information in accordance with Federal regulations.
This process offers protection for faculty members and the University in the event that a student claims that their right to accommodations has been denied or that the accommodations implemented were inappropriate.
The following statement is suggested:
The University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill facilitates the implementation of reasonable accommodations, including resources and services, for students with disabilities, chronic medical conditions, a temporary disability or pregnancy complications resulting in difficulties with accessing learning opportunities.
All accommodations are coordinated through the Accessibility Resources and Service Office. In the first instance please visit their website http://accessibility.unc.edu, call 919-962-8300 or email accessibility@unc.edu.
Please contact ARS as early in the semester as possible. You are also welcome to use or adapt this statement for use in person, in classes and lectures.
