Disability Services for Students

Disability Services for Students at FlatheadValleyCommunity College assures program access to the college by students with disabilities. We coordinate and provide reasonable accommodations, advocate for an accessible and hospitable learning environment, and promote self-determination on the part of the students we serve. 

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, an individual with a disability eligible for program modifications means any person who has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities. Students provide evidence that the disability causes a functional limitation which impacts access to college programs.

Working together, the office of Disability Services and the faculty and staff at FVCC modify non-essential elements of academic work so that course expectations may be met through alternative means. Accommodations include extra time to take exams in a reduced-distraction area, alternate formats of course materials, relocation of classes to accessible facilities and aides such as sign language interpreters, note takers, and readers.

When Advising a Student with a Disability

Students in postsecondary education are responsible for disclosing their disability to the office of disability services, their advisor and others as they may wish.  Initial discussion of disabilities should therefore rest with the student.

Ø      If a student states that he or she is experiencing academic difficulties due to physical or psychological health impairment, this may be an indication of disability. Encourage the student to contact DSS regarding possible accommodations.  The office is located in LRC 129 and Anna San Diego is serving as the Disability specialist. Her phone number is 756-3881.

Ø      If a student discloses that he or she is registered with DSS, you may ask the student how it impacts the student’s academic work.  Many times, the student will have a disability services card that outlines the accommodations being provided.

 When advising students with disabilities, DSS recommends encouraging students to consider the following questions.

·         How many classes should the student take in a semester? Is the student successfully completing twelve (12) credits per semester?

·         Is it better for the student to take classes back-to-back or should there be a break between classes?

·         Should the student take morning, afternoon, or evening classes?

·         When should the student attempt requirements that he or she knows will be successful or that will cause difficulty?

·         Is there an on- line option available? Will that option work better for the student’s disability?

·         What are the advantages or disadvantages to taking all recommended prerequisite courses?