Student Handbook

Rights and Responsibilities

Section 504 of The 1973 Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, 2008, continue to provide direction and guidance to the University as it reaches new levels of access in all areas. The University and student have rights and responsibilities.

Student Rights and Responsibilities
Every qualified student with a disability has the right to:

-Equal access to educational and co-curricular programs, services, activities, and facilities available through KU.

-Reasonable and effective accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids as determined on a case-by-case basis.

-Confidentiality regarding disability information including the right to choose to whom the disclosure of disability is made except as required by law.

-Receive information in reasonably accessible formats (e.g., meets request deadlines to ensure availability).

Every qualified student with a disability has the right to:

-Meet KU's qualifications including essential technical, academic, and institutional standards.

-Identify as an individual with a disability and request accommodations through the Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC) in a timely manner.

-Provide documentation from an appropriate professional source verifying the nature of the disability, functional limitations, and the rationale for specific accommodations being recommended.

-Follow specific procedures for obtaining reasonable and appropriate accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids as outlined.

Institutional Rights and Responsibilities

The University of Kansas (KU) through the Academic Achievement and Access Center has the right and responsibility to:

-Maintain the University's academic standards.
-Require qualifying disability documentation in order to verify eligibility for disability accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids.
-Discuss students' eligibility with diagnosing professionals given signed consent.
-Select from among equally effective/appropriate accommodations, adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids in consultation with the student.
-Deny requests for accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids when disability documentation does not identify a specific disability, fails to verify the need for the requested services, or is not provided in a timely manner.
-Deny requests for accommodations, adjustment, and/or auxiliary aids that are inappropriate or unreasonable based on disability documentation including any that:

	-Pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others;
	-Constitute a substantial change or alteration of an
	 essential course element/program standard, or
	-Pose undue financial or administrative burden on the University.
							

Academic Accommodations

The Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC) coordinates accommodations for students university-wide. It is an individual's choice whether to self-identify, submit documentation, and make the decision about using accommodations. AAAC provides academic accommodations such as in-class accommodations, auxiliary aides, and services (e.g., alternative texts or sign language interpreters). Para-transit is available to students with temporary or permanent mobility impairments who are unable to use the standard buses.

-This handbook is to be used a guide to accommodations at KU.
-The services listed are the ones commonly provided.
-Accommodations are tailored to a student's need on a case-by-case, course-by-course basis.
-It is the student's responsibility to self-identify, provide appropriate documentation, and request services in a timely manner.

How do you qualify for accommodations?

To be eligible for accommodations, provide typed documentation from a qualified professional on the nature and impact of the disability. Information should include test results/report, functional effects of the disability and/or medication, and recommendations. Once received, it will be reviewed and assigned to the appropriate staff. During the intake, appropriate accommodations will be discussed.

Who can you talk to regarding accommodations?

For general information, any AAAC staff will answer general questions. However, questions regarding specific accommodations should be directed to the individual specialist assigned to the student or to the director of the Academic Achievement and Access Center.

How do you receive accommodations?

From your qualified accommodations, you have the right to select which accommodations to use and when. Individual needs can change or vary from class to class.

An Accommodation request must be completed for each class for which accommodations are needed. Accommodations are individualized for the student based on the disability documentation and the functional limitations in the classroom. Students complete the request with their AAAC professional staff member. Depending on the nature of requested accommodation(s) that are time intensive (e.g., sign language interpreting, books in alternate format), students should request services as soon as they register for classes. Otherwise, go to classes and obtain a course syllabus before scheduling an appointment.

Petition Process for Substitution of Math Requirements to the BGS Degree Option due to Mathematics Learning Disability or Information Processing Disorder.

The BGS degree requirements include a mathematics sequence. Students must complete a minimum of College Algebra (MATH 101) and a higher mathematics course with a prerequisite of MATH 101 for a total of six credit hours of mathematics instruction. Students may petition the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences' committees governing undergraduate degree requirements for a course substitution on the basis of disability. A student's petition to the Academic Standards Subcommittee must include:

1. The specific requirement petitioned for substitution;
2. The course(s) proposed as a substitution (see list below);
3. An explanation of the student's disability and why course substitution is an appropriate, reasonable, and necessary accommodation for student's disability; and
4. A recommendation from the Director of the Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC) that the course substitution be granted, showing AAAC's analysis of the student's disability and the reason the substitution is appropriate, reasonable, and necessary (see AAAC requirements below).

A completed petition may be submitted to the College Student Academic Services Office in Strong Hall, Room 109. The Academic Standards Subcommittee reviews all petitions and will respond to the student once a decision has been made. A petition for course substitution for learning disability or information processing disorder will be considered if and only if the petition contains the recommendation from the Director of the Academic Achievement and Access Center.

The University strongly believes in the necessity of math achievement, and the Kansas Algebra Program provides many appropriate accommodations and academic support resources (tutoring, academic aides, etc.) to facilitate success in mathematics. Therefore course substitution will be granted rarely and only where supported by medical information demonstrating that other available academic adjustments will not allow the student meaningful access to the BGS degree. Students must meet the six hour minimum requirement for mathematics. If a student is petitioning a substitution for all six credit hours, they must include two courses (totaling 6 credit hours) for the suggested substitution.

Examples of courses that may substitute for mathematics requirements include:

* PHIL 310, Symbolic Logic
* PHIL 148, Argument and Reason (Students must complete COMS 130 to satisfy the Argument and Reason requirement)
* FIN 101, Personal Finance
* Departmental statistics course (requires departmental approval)
* Other courses may be submitted but will be evaluated for suitability by the Academic Standards Subcommittee

AAAC Requirements

To obtain AAAC's recommendation, students must meet with an Accessibility Specialist at AAAC to review and discuss the student's status, disability, and the academic support available for math courses. AAAC will review the student's case, including supporting documentation, and reach a decision as to the accommodations supported by student's documented educational history and disabling condition.

Required Documentation: To review the student's case, the student must provide AAAC with the following information and documentation:

1. Documentation of the student's mathematics disability and confirmation of the student's prior performance in mathematics courses, including:
  a. A complete diagnostic assessment report from a qualified professional, including results of specific   psychoeducational testing indicating a Learning Disability in Mathematics or a processing deficit impacting   mathematics, and evaluating available academic   adjustments other than course substitution and why those   adjustments are insufficient to provide meaningful access;
  b. Student's prior individual education plans (IEP) and 504/transition plans involving math courses, including   information about previous academic adjustments provided and utilized by the student; and
  c. Other supporting information requested by AAAC about previously utilized accommodations in mathematics   classes.
2. Documentation of student's complete academic record, including ACT/SAT scores, math placement test scores (if any), term and cumulative GPA's and semester course loads at KU and/or at previous institutions, as well as high school and prior college transcripts demonstrating math performance.

What about non-classroom issues?

The University will utilize text telephones (TTYs) or equally effective telecommunications systems to communicate with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing or have speech impairments. Any automated-attendant system utilized by the University, including, but not limited to, voice-mail and messaging, or an interactive voice response system, for receiving and directing incoming telephone calls, must provide effective real-time communication with individuals using auxiliary aids and services, including TTYs and all forms of FCC-approved telecommunications relay system, including internet-based relay systems. The University will respond to telephone calls from a telecommunications relay service established under the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended, in the same manner that it responds to other telephone calls. Any campus telephone emergency services shall provide direct access to individuals who use TDD/TTYs and computer modems.

Confidentiality

The Academic Achievement and Access Center is committed to ensuring that confidentiality is protected. Therefore, the AAAC will not disclose your relationship with our office or information contained in your student-client file that is considered part of your educational record and is protected from disclosure under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Our office will adhere to the following guidelines regarding confidentiality:

Identifying information

-The Academic Achievement and Access Center will not release any identifying information about you to any person unless it is necessary to provide access at the University of Kansas or with your written consent, which allows us to only release information from your educational records.

-In answer to a question regarding you, when you have not given written consent, we may discuss related general information, policies, and procedures.

Disability-related information

-Disability-related information includes documentation, correspondence, file notes, and accommodation records.

-Access to disability-related information is shared only on a need-to-know basis and to ensure appropriate access to education and facilities.

-At your request or in response to an inquiry, disability-related information will be shared with University of Kansas faculty and staff to ensure appropriate access and accommodation.

E-mail communication

The Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC) website lists staff e-mail addresses for your convenience. However, no e-mail is secure and confidential. Your screen name, ID, computer designation or other personal information is transmitted with e-mail and could be intercepted by others.

To facilitate confidentiality, the AAAC is willing to conduct all business with you by U.S. mail, phone, and in person. If the student agrees, AAAC may also use e-mail communication, text message, or other means of effective communication to conduct business.

KU and AAAC have in place appropriate physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and help prevent unauthorized access to e-mail; however, we cannot guarantee that e-mail communications are secure and confidential.

Implementing Academic Accommodations

Policy

To provide academic accommodations for qualified students who are registered with the Academic Achievement and Access Center.

Procedures

The Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC) facilitates appropriate academic adjustments and auxiliary aids and services that are necessary to afford an individual with a disability an equal opportunity to participate in the University's programs and activities. Specifically, students must provide written documentation from a qualified professional on the nature and impact of the disability. The student and AAAC will then engage in an interactive process to determine what, if any, academic adjustments are appropriate based on the student's disability and individual needs.

Students must meet with assigned AAAC professional staff member

 -Complete an accommodations request form for each class in which accommodations are needed.
 -Sign and date the accommodation request.

Student must notify each instructor as follows:

 -Meet with each instructor during office hours to review the accommodation request.

 -Discuss implementing accommodations with each instructor (e.g., when extra time for exam will be given, where to take the exam, note taking).

 -Address any concerns about accommodations promptly.

 -Student is not obligated to self-disclose the nature of his or her disability to the faculty member or instructor.

Academic Achievement and Access Center Staff Responsibilities:

 -Meet with each eligible student requesting accommodations, and determine appropriate accommodations based on documented need.

 -With the student, complete and sign the accommodations request authorizing accommodations, and request that students meet with each instructor to discuss accommodations at least two weeks prior to the scheduled first day of class, if the request for academic adjustments was made in a timely manner.

 -If requested before the last day of the previous semester, AAAC will arrange for the academic accommodation, modification, aide, auxiliary aid, or interpreter.

 -Faculty or instructors will be notified of the academic adjustments for each student at least two weeks before the first day of class, if the request for academic adjustments was made in a timely manner.

 -Ensure that any equipment or technology utilized to effectuate any academic adjustment is tested and is working properly one week prior to the first day of class.

Faculty/Instructor Responsibilities:

 -Discuss implementation of accommodations with each student.

 -Consult with AAAC professional staff if questions arise concerning the requested accommodations.

Testing Accommodations

Policy

The process of determining reasonable and appropriate testing accommodations for students with disabilities is a collaborative one between AAAC, faculty, and the student.

Procedures

Students should take the following steps to receive testing accommodations:

-Meet with assigned AAAC staff member each semester. If the student is eligible, an accommodation request will be completed for each class for which testing accommodations are applicable. This should be done within the first couple of weeks of the semester or a minimum of two weeks before the first exam.

-It is the student's responsibility to arrange a meeting with the instructor to discuss accommodations. During this meeting, students should ask how the instructor would like to handle testing accommodations.

Submission deadlines for Testing Accommodation Forms

The student should fill out an online test request form at http://www.disability.ku.edu ONLY IF the instructor cannot make test arrangements.

-FIVE (5) working days PRIOR to the requested date for all non-final tests and quizzes.

-TEN (10) working days PRIOR to the LAST DAY of classes for final exams.

NOTE: The date of the exam and weekends DO NOT COUNT when calculating working days.

Once a student submits the online test request form, AAAC reserves a room if necessary, arranges for a proctor and contacts the instructor about the test exchange. A confirmation email will be sent to the student, the instructor, and the proctor to confirm all details approximately two to three days before the exam.

General guidelines for exams administered through the
Academic Achievement and Access Center:

-Exams will be administered at the designated class time unless an alternate time is authorized by the instructor. AAAC will adhere strictly to designated start times and time limits.

-If for any reason a student will not be taking a scheduled exam through AAAC (including withdrawing from a course), the student must notify AAAC in person, through a phone call (785-864-2620), or via email (drtestcoord@ku.edu) so that the space may be used for other students.

-The AAAC will make every effort to provide accommodations on evening exams; however, students may need to seek accommodations directly from faculty or try to schedule the exam during business hours.

-Students may choose to not use the testing accommodations.

   -Faculty do not have an obligation to allow a make-up exam to retroactively accommodate a student who chooses    not to use accommodations.
   -Students have a responsibility to request exam accommodations in a timely manner, typically five business days.
   -If the instructor is not able to make arrangements for test accommodations, students may fill out a Test    Accommodation form online through the AAAC website.

-Any instance of academic misconduct as defined by University Senate Article II, Section 6 will be referred to the instructor.

Note-Taking

Students must provide documentation to The Academic Achievement and Access Center that clearly supports the need for note-taking accommodations. Note-takers are solicited in class on a volunteer basis. If a student is dissatisfied with notes for any reason, a new note-taker will be found. If the student receiving notes withdraws from class, he/she must inform the note-taker and the AAAC in writing within 24 hours. If the student terminates the note-taker, he/she must submit a reason for termination in writing to the AAAC.

Note: Students must attend class to obtain notes

Procedures for students, staff and faculty

Students

-Meet with AAAC staff to request accommodations.
-Review note-taking procedures with AAAC staff and pick a note-taking packet for each class.
-Meet with instructor to discuss accommodations in a timely manner.
-Ask the instructor for assistance in selection of the most qualified note-taker from the students who volunteer. Select a primary note-taker.
-If no one volunteers, contact AAAC immediately.
-Inquire whether instructor has adequate notes that can be shared.
-Attend class.

Faculty/Instructor Responsibilities

-Discuss note-taking accommodation request with student.
-If necessary, clarify procedures with the AAAC.
-Read the in-class announcement requesting a volunteer note-taker.
-When asked, review the quality and content of notes and recommend the most qualified note-taker.

Primary Note-taker Responsibilities
-Provide clear and concise notes for the student.
-Supply copies of notes when requested by the student or instructor.
-Notify the student and AAAC immediately if dropping the course so that another note-taker can be identified.
-Pick up a letter of commendation for serving as a note-taker at the end of the course.

Alternative Text

Policy

The Academic Achievement and Access Center at the University of Kansas will provide alternative text for required course readings to qualified students with disabilities. Textbook/print conversion is a time-intensive process and can require up to three to six months (e.g., math or science texts) to complete. To ensure the availability of these accommodations from the first day of class, students must provide qualifying disability documentation, meet the accommodation request deadlines, and follow specified procedures.

-AAAC professional staff must authorize alternative print as an accommodation.

-Requests for alternative text must be submitted a minimum of six (6) weeks in advance of the start of the semester.

-AAAC will convert materials to alternative formats for in-class required readings only. Other requests will be evaluated on an individual basis as the schedule allows. In-class required readings always take priority.

-Copyright law requires that students provide the books/materials (and a receipt for them) that are to be converted to alternative formats. AAAC will provide a verification receipt of materials delivered for text conversion.

-AAAC does not produce alternative text materials that are already available in the needed format at other sources (e.g., Learning Ally, internet, public libraries).

-Material that needs to be converted to e-text requires the removal of book bindings and thus may reduce or eliminate the potential for book resale at the end of the semester.

Procedure

-Students should meet with their AAAC Specialist to discuss eligibility for alternative formats. Students will be provided an orientation to the policies and procedures of requesting and using alternative formats. Students will be required to review and sign an Alternative Print Contract verifying that they understand the alternate print guidelines and their responsibilities in the process.

-Register for classes as soon as possible. As a student, it is your responsibility to schedule an appointment with your academic advisor in a timely manner and clear all holds so that you are eligible to enroll in classes as soon as you are allowed.

-Obtain a list of textbooks and other required readings for each course. If the material needs to be converted, students must provide all required readings to AAAC six (6) weeks before the semester begins. This includes textbooks, course packs, and any PDF or other documents posted to course Blackboard sites. The list of required books can be obtained in multiple ways (see "How to Obtain Your Reading List and Books" on p. 13).

-Check with Learning Ally for availability. Students can search Learning Ally's on-line catalogue at www.learningally.org/Audiobooks/21/. For each book requested, you need the following: author's full name, complete title of the text, edition number, and copyright year. Please note that ISBN is NOT a reliable way to search for these materials.

-If books are not available from Learning Ally, students must bring the textbooks with a copy of the receipt to the Academic Achievement and Access office for the conversion process at least six (6) weeks before the first day of class. AAAC cannot guarantee availability of alternate formats by the time classes begin unless the deadline is met. Material will be converted on a first-come, first-served basis once the deadline has passed. Students who miss the deadline will need to provide the AAAC with a copy of each syllabus with reading due dates. Brailled materials may require up to six months to obtain, so please communicate with AAAC staff individually about any material needed in Braille.

-Acquire appropriate equipment (e.g., Learning Ally playback equipment and software for PC or MAC). Equipment for Learning Ally playback is available for loan from AAAC in limited numbers on a first-come, first-served basis. We can also assist in obtaining software playback equipment for your personal computer.

-At the end of the semester, all books obtained from Learning Ally through AAAC's institutional membership and any borrowed equipment must be returned. A hold will be placed on a student's record should any material not be returned to AAAC.

How to Obtain Your Reading List and Books

**First, it is crucial that students enroll in classes as soon as they are eligible to do so. Students should start obtaining book lists immediately upon enrollment**

-Contact the course instructor(s) to obtain a copy of the syllabus or a list of required reading either in person, by phone, or e-mail. If the instructor is unavailable, call the academic department and inquire if they have the syllabus or reading list for your class. You will need to obtain ALL required reading. This includes textbooks, course packs, and PDF and other documents that might be posted on Blackboard as required reading for the course.

-Contact the KU Bookstore at the Memorial Union. You can search for your books online at http://www.kubookstore.com/; you will need to provide the course number and instructor. If your books are available, you may purchase them online and have them shipped to the AAAC office or to your home address. You may also contact the Jayhawk Bookstore (785-843-3826) or the University Book Shop (785-749-5206). Books are also available from Internet sources such as Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Half.com.

-If you are still unsuccessful in obtaining your book list, contact your AAAC professional staff member immediately.

Student Resources

-The University provides assistive technology that students can use themselves in order to produce alternative text materials. Flatbed scanners, conversion software, and screen readers are available in the Budig Computer Lab, Anschutz Library, and the Kansas Union. Voice-to-text software and hardware are available in the JRP Learning Resource Center. A CCTV for enlarging print is available in Watson Library.

-Another resource for students who need to obtain books and have either a computer or MP3 player is www.audible.com. This website allows individuals to purchase books already converted to audio files.

Sign Language Interpreting Services for Students

The Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC) recognizes the importance of quality real-time auditory access to academic and co-curricular materials. Consequently, sign language interpreting and real-time speech-to-text services are integral pieces of the accommodation process for students who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. Although the University of Kansas currently does not utilize Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) services, if it should become necessary to implement VRI, the University will follow the requirements of the Title II regulation at 28 C.F.R. S 35.160 (d) as amended. The following procedures outline the provision of such services.

Procedures

-First day of class: On the first day of class, arrive a few minutes early and introduce yourself to the interpreter. The interpreter will be looking for you in the first row of the classroom or at the entrance of the lecture hall. Be sure your seat in each classroom is right for you. It is important that you have a direct line of vision to the instructor, the board or screen, and the interpreter.

-Course syllabus: It is your responsibility to secure a syllabus (an outline of the main topics covered throughout the semester) for each class and use it to plan for your assigned readings, exams, presentations, and final exam dates.

-Questions about class information: If you have questions about class information, ask the instructor. It can be very beneficial to meet with the instructor outside of class time, either during the instructor's office hours or by making an appointment with the instructor. You may request interpreting services for meetings with your instructors. If you want to talk briefly with the instructor or teaching assistant immediately preceding or following class, it is your responsibility to ask the interpreter if he/she can arrive before or stay after class for this purpose.

-Schedule changes: AAAC needs a copy of your class schedule and accommodation requests to arrange interpreters. Students eligible for early enrollment are encouraged to take advantage of this privilege and submit class schedules to the Interpreter Coordinator promptly. Because of the limited availability of interpreters, schedules and schedule changes by the student received less than five business days prior to the first day of class are at risk for starting the semester without a service provider. If you need to make a schedule change, please discuss your options with the Interpreter Coordinator before making the change to ensure the availability of a service provider.

-Attendance: If a student will be absent for any reason, it is important that he/she notify the Interpreter Coordinator as soon as possible but absolutely no later than 15 minutes before the class. When possible, a cancellation notice should be made a minimum of two business days in advance of the event/class. Failure to notify the Interpreter Coordinator in advance will result in that absence being counted as a no-show/no-call. The student is responsible for notifying the Interpreter Coordinator of his/her absence even if there is more than one D/HH student in the same class.

-To notify about an absence: Text: 785-691-7284, include your name and the course name in the message, email the front desk staff in the AAAC at: achieve@ku.edu or use the TTY number, 785-864-2620

-Interpreter wait time: If you are late, the interpreter will wait 10 minutes for a 50-minute class and 15 minutes for classes longer than an hour. If you do not arrive to your class within these timelines, the interpreter will leave and notify the Interpreter Coordinator of a no-show/no-call.

-Student no-show/no-call: After third no-show/no call per class per semester, it is the student's responsibility to arrange a meeting with the Interpreter Coordinator to discuss the situation and review AAAC policies regarding cancellations.

-After fourth no-show/no call per class per semester it is the student's responsibility to arrange a meeting with the Director of the Academic Achievement and Access Center or designee to discuss the potential continuance of interpreting services for the class in question.

-Interpreter no show: Contact the Academic Achievement and Access Center Office achieve@ku.edu or kimbates@ku.edu or text 785-691-7284 if the interpreter does not show up for class. As a last resort, a digital audio recorder is available from the AAAC to record lectures, and arrangements can be made for audio recordings to be transcribed as soon as possible.

-Communication with your interpreter: Communicate with your interpreter. If you have problems understanding signs used or any other concerns, discuss the concerns with the interpreter. On the first day of class or early in the semester, let the interpreter know if you will be voicing for yourself or prefer him/her to voice for you. Let the interpreter know your sign preference (ASL, PSE, SEE), seating preference, and/or concerns you are having that affect your ability to understand the interpreter. If your concerns are not resolved after talking with the interpreter, address your concerns with the Interpreter Coordinator.

-Confidentiality: KU interpreters are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the professional standards set by the Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct as well as abide by all University Policies and Procedures and the regulations set forth in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

-Interpreters at the University of Kansas may share classroom accommodation-related issues with other AAAC staff on a "need to know" basis. As a result, there will be times when interpreters share typically confidential information about students and work experiences/challenges for the purpose of improving the quality of the service.

-Internships: Students may be involved with internships or field work placements as part of their academic program. AAAC considers internships and field work placements in the same light as regularly scheduled courses at KU. All of the responsibilities and policies regarding use of services (i.e., interpreting and speech-to-text services) remain in effect for all students who earn course credit in field placement(s) and internship programs.

-Transportation: Some courses or course assignments may be held off campus (i.e., not on KU's main campus). Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the off-campus site. AAAC staff and contracted service providers do not provide transportation for deaf and hard of hearing students to or from campus or other sites. This applies to internships, field placements, group meetings, courses, and other placements that take place off campus.

-Additional academic interpreting requests: If you need an interpreter for any other meeting (such as meeting during a professor's office hours), lecture, or class related activity it is imperative that you complete a Service Request Form at least 5 business days in advance so that an interpreter can be secured. This form can also be found on the KU AAAC web page.

-Non-academic interpreting requests: All extra-curricular (non-academic) or employment-related interpreting requests should be made to the department or organization hosting the activity or event. Host departments/organizations may consult or collaborate with AAAC in procuring interpreting services. If your requests for services are not satisfied, please contact Jamie Lloyd Simpson, Director of Accessibility and ADA Education (Lloyd@ku.edu, 785-864-6414).

-Academic advisor: It is your academic responsibility to establish an on-going relationship with an academic advisor. This should be done during your first semester at the university so that you will have access to information for appropriate course selection during your academic career at KU. The Interpreter Coordinator will assist you with accommodation-related issues but will not assist you in choosing your classes. If you need an interpreter to meet with your advisor, plan ahead; complete a Service Request Form online at least five business days in advance.

-ITP students: Students in the Johnson County Community College's Interpreter Training Program (ITP) may be observing the interpreter or doing some interpreting for your class. This experience is a critical element of interpreter training. Student interpreters will NOT be observing YOU but rather the interpreting process. If a problem develops, inform the KU staff interpreter working with the intern so that the situation can be resolved.

Questions: The Academic Achievement and Access Center is here as your ally. If you have any special needs or concerns, please direct them to the Interpreter Coordinator, Kim Bates, in 22 Strong Hall, 785-864-2620 (v/tty), or kimbates@ku.edu.

Speech-to-Text Services

Policy

The Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC) recognizes the importance of quality real-time auditory access to academic and co-curricular materials. Consequently, sign language interpreting and real-time speech-to-text services are integral pieces of the accommodation process for students who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. The following procedures outline the provision of such services.

Procedures

-First day of class: Arrive a few minutes early the first day of class to introduce yourself to the service provider. Be sure your seat in each classroom is right for you. It is important that you have a direct line of vision to the instructor, the board, and the text display screen.

-Course syllabus: It is your responsibility to secure a syllabus (an outline of the main subjects covered throughout the semester) for each class and use it to plan for your assigned readings, exams, presentations, and final exam dates.

-Questions about class information: If you have questions about class information, ask the instructor. It can be very beneficial to meet with the instructor outside of class time, either during the instructor's office hours or by making an appointment with the instructor. You may request speech-to-text services for meetings with your instructors. If you want to talk briefly with the instructor or teaching assistant immediately preceding or following class, it is your responsibility to ask the service provider if he/she can arrive before or stay after class for this purpose.

-Visual information: The student, instructor, and AAAC staff will work collaboratively, as necessary, to ensure that visual information presented on blackboards, etc., is collected. Students are encouraged to utilize note-takers for each class to assist with summarizing the instructor's message and to capture information displayed on the blackboard/whiteboard, etc.

-Schedule changes: AAAC needs a copy of your class schedule and accommodation requests to arrange speech-to-text services. Students eligible for early enrollment are encouraged to take advantage of this privilege and submit class schedules to the Interpreter Coordinator promptly. Due to the limited availability of service providers, schedules and schedule changes by the student received less than five business days prior to the first day of class are at risk for starting the semester without a service provider. If you need to make a schedule change, please discuss your options with the Interpreter Coordinator before making the change to ensure the availability of a service provider.

-Attendance: If a student will be absent for any reason, it is important that he/she notify the Interpreter Coordinator as soon as possible, but absolutely no later than 15 minutes before the class. When possible a cancellation notice should be made a minimum of two business days in advance of the event/class. Failure to notify the Interpreter Coordinator in advance will result in that absence being counted as a no-show/no-call. The student is responsible for notifying the Interpreter Coordinator of his/her absence even if there is more than one D/HH student in the same class.

-To notify about an absence: Text: 785-691-7284, include your name and the course name in the message or email the front desk staff in the AAAC at: achieve@ku.edu or use the TTY number, 785-864-2620.

-Service provider wait time: If you are late, the service provider will wait 10 minutes for a 50-minute class and 15 minutes for classes longer than an hour. If you do not arrive to your class within these timelines, the service provider will leave and notify the Interpreter Coordinator of a no-show/no-call.

-Student no-show/no-call: After third no-show/no call per class per semester, it is the student's responsibility to arrange a meeting with the Interpreter Coordinator to discuss the situation and review AAAC policies regarding cancellations.

-After fourth no-show/no call per class per semester it is the student's responsibility to arrange a meeting with the Director of the Academic Achievement and Access Center or designee to discuss the potential continuance of speech-to-text services for the class in question.

-Leaving class: The service provider will not type if you are not present in the room. (The role of the speech-to-text service provider is to provide real-time communication access.)

-Service provider no show or technology crash: Contact the AAAC Office achieve@ku.edu or kimbates@ku.edu or text 785-691-7284 immediately for assistance. As a last resort, a digital audio recorder is available from AAAC to record lectures, and arrangements can be made for audio recordings to be transcribed as soon as possible.

-Transcript: Service providers will provide unedited electronic transcripts to you immediately following class via email attachment. The class transcript is for your eyes only. Transcripts are not to be shared with any other persons. No other students, even if they identify themselves as an Academic Achievement and Access Center client, are to be given transcripts without prior approval from the appropriate AAAC staff member.

-Equipment: AAAC staff will ensure that any equipment or technology, including wireless connectivity and microphones, utilized to effectuate real-time speech to text captioning or services is tested by a qualified technician and is working properly at least one week before the first day of class to ensure the student receives timely, equally effective and equally integrated auxiliary aids and services. AAAC and KU Information Technology (IT) will ensure that remote CART will have a dedicated high speed wired or wireless connection without interruptions, pauses or loss of connectivity to ensure a clear audible transmission of voices from all locations in the classroom. AAAC will provide a clear, easy to read, real-time text display. AAAC will also ensure that eligible students receive an accurate and complete transcript of the oral communication. AAAC will provide adequate training in the use of the technology to the users so that equipment set up and operation can be completed quickly and efficiently. Upon student request, AAAC will set up and store equipment used for CART services. In the event of an equipment malfunction, AAAC staff will consult with KU IT so that an effective remedy can be provided prior to the next class, if possible, or in a timely manner.

-Foreign Language/Technical Classes: AAAC will ensure the service provider has access to textbooks, course syllabi and course website in foreign language classes or those classes with a high degree of technical material (i.e., math, chemistry) one week before the start of class. Should additional books become necessary to ensure the service provider is prepared, AAAC staff will make them available as necessary.

-Communication with your provider: Communicate with your service provider. Let the service provider know on the first day of class, or early in the semester, if you will be voicing for yourself or prefer her/him to voice for you. Address concerns about the quality of the real-time services with both the speech-to-text service provider and the Interpreter Coordinator so that any technological glitches or transcript quality issues may be resolved promptly.

-Confidentiality: Speech-to-text service providers contracted with AAAC are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the professional standards set by the National Court Reporting Association (NCRA) (i.e., maintain confidentiality, render the message faithfully, refrain from interjecting personal opinions, and function in a manner appropriate to the situation etc.) as well as abide by all University policies and procedures and the regulations set forth in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). However, service providers may at times need to share classroom accommodation-related issues with other campus staff on a “need to know” basis. As a result, there will be times when service providers share typically confidential information about students and work experiences/challenges for the purpose of improving the quality of AAAC services.

-Internships: Students may be involved with internships or field work placements as part of their academic program. AAAC considers internships and field work placements in the same light as regularly scheduled courses at KU. All of the responsibilities and policies regarding use of services (i.e., interpreting and speech-to-text services) remain in effect for all students who earn course credit in field placement(s) and internship programs.

-Transportation: Some courses or course assignments may be held off campus (i.e., not on KU's main campus). Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the off-campus site. AAAC staff and contracted service providers do not provide transportation for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students to or from campus or other sites. This applies to internships, field placements, group meetings, courses, and other placements that take place off campus.

-Additional academic speech-to-text requests: If you need speech-to-text services for any other meeting (such as meeting during a professor's office hours), lecture, or class-related activity, it is imperative that you complete a Service Request Form at least five business days in advance so that services can be secured. This form can also be found on the AAAC web page.

-Non-academic speech-to-text requests: All extra-curricular (non-academic) or employment related interpreting requests should be made to the department or organization hosting the activity or event. Host departments/organizations may consult or collaborate with AAAC in procuring speech-to-text services. If your requests for services are not satisfied, please contactJamie Lloyd Simpson, Director of Accessibility and ADA Education (Lloyd@ku.edu, 785-864-6414).

-Academic advisor: It is your academic responsibility to establish an ongoing relationship with an academic advisor. This should be done during your first semester at the university so that you will have access to information for appropriate course selection during your academic career at KU. The Interpreter Coordinator will assist you with accommodation-related issues but will not assist you in choosing your classes. If you need speech-to-text services to meet with your advisor, plan ahead; complete a Service Request Form online at least five business days in advance.

Questions: Academic Achievement and Access Center is here as your ally. If you have any special needs or concerns, please direct them to the Interpreter Coordinator, Kim Bates, in 22 Strong Hall, 785-864-2620 (v/tty), or kimbates@ku.edu.

Speech-to-Text Services

Policy

On-campus Para-transit is available for students who qualify either with a permanent or temporary disability.

Procedures

-To receive the curb-to-curb service, a student must register with The Academic Achievement and Access Center (AAAC). Documentation must be sent, faxed (785-864-2817), or hand-delivered to the AAAC office in 22 Strong.

-Once the student has been approved for this service, AAAC staff member authorizes the student to use the Jay Lift by email. If a student has a temporary disability, they will have a service end date included in that email.

-All users must supply their name, phone, and schedule to Jay Lift by phone. Call 785-856-3516, select option 2, extension 101, and leave your information. All rides require 24 hours notice prior to first ride as well as 24-hour cancellation notice.

-Co-curricular ride requests must be first made through the AAAC office.

-If a student will need to use paratransit in Lawrence, it is imperative to be certified through the City of Lawrence.

Service Animal

Policy

Qualified service dogs are permitted in campus buildings as a reasonable accommodation to assist the individual with disabilities. They are subject to verification by identification card or appropriate certifying letter.

Procedures

Students living in KU Housing who will bring a service dog will need to register that dog with AAAC, 22 Strong Hall. Only qualified dogs are allowed to live in Housing.

Grievance Procedures for Students Registered with AAAC

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression and genetic information in the University's programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Director of the Office of Institutional Opportunity and Access, IOA@ku.edu, 1246 W. Campus Road, Room 153A, Lawrence, KS, 66045, (785)864-6414, TDD (785)864-2620.

If a student is not satisfied with any decision by the University involving academic adjustments or effective communication, or otherwise believes she or he has been discriminated against on the basis of disability, the student may contact the designated coordinator and/or file a complaint of discrimination in accordance with the University's anti-discrimination grievance procedure entitled KU Discrimination Complaint Resolution Process. The student may contact the director of the Academic Achievement and Access Center prior to or after a complaint of discrimination is filed to attempt to resolve the complaint informally, but any informal or voluntary resolution attempts after a complaint is filed will not delay the investigation of the complaint pursuant to the grievance procedure set forth in the KU Discrimination Complaint Resolution Process.

Scholarship Information

Through a generous gift, the AAAC offers the A. Marjean Werries Scholarship each spring for three to five students for the upcoming academic year. Students with hearing impairments that have financial need who are registered with AAAC will receive email notice during the spring semester with links to the application process by April 1.

Occasionally, The Academic Achievement and Access Center learns about new scholarship opportunities for students with disabilities. Check our website at www.disability.ku.edu for updated information on available scholarships. The websites listed below also provide information on scholarships and financial aid sources.

Scholarship and Financial Aid sources on the web

www.scholarships.com

www.finaid.org

www.usnews.com/usnews/edu/dollars/dshome.htm

www.collegeboard.com/pay/

www.collegescholarships.com

www.college-scholarships.com/100college.htm

www.fastweb.com

Information about Financial Aid

www.heath.gwu.edu/

www.makoa.org/education.htm

Academic Achievement and Access Center Contacts

Mary Ann Rasnak, Director	mrasnak@ku.edu
Andrew Shoemaker, Associate Director	shoe@ku.edu
Kim Bates, Interpreter Coordinator	kimbates@ku.edu
Arika Sprecker, Assistant Learning Disability Specialist	arikas@ku.edu
Juliette Loring, Disability Specialist	jzloring@ku.edu
Melody Henning, Administrative Associate Senior	mehennin@ku.edu

KU Contacts

KU Info	www.kuinfo.lib.ku.edu	864-3506
Writing Center	www.writing.ku.edu	864-2399
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences	www.clas.ku.edu/us	864-3500
Student Housing	www.housing.ku.edu	864-4560
Acad. Achievement & Access Center	www.achievement.ku.edu	864-4064
Supportive Educational Services	www.apex.ku.edu/ses	864-3971
University Advising Center	www.advising.ku.edu	864-2834
Student Health	www.ku.edu/~shs/	864-9500

Other Contacts

Independence, Inc.	www.independenceinc.org
Lawrence Transit	www.lawrencetransit.org
CAST	www.cast.org
AHEAD	www.ahead.org