Transition To College
There are important differences between secondary and postsecondary education. In order to be effective self-advocates, students need to be informed about disability-related legislation. IDEA is the legislation that guarantees a free appropriate public education and governs the provision of special education services to students with disabilities in elementary and secondary schools. Under IDEA, the school is responsible for: identifying students with disabilities, providing all necessary assessments and for monitoring the provision of special education services. These special education services, which are described in detail in a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Individualized Transition Plan (ITP), could significantly alter the requirements of the "standard" high school academic program. However, IDEA does not apply to higher education. Colleges and universities do not offer "special" education. 504 and the ADA involve legislation that says colleges and universities are prohibited from discriminating against a person because of disability. Institutions must provide reasonable modifications, accommodations, or auxiliary aids which will enable qualified students to have access to, participate in, and benefit from the full range of the educational programs and activities which are offered to all students on campus. Examples include extra time for exams, use of a reader/scribe for exams, or an interpreter. Decisions regarding the exact accommodations to be provided are made on an individualized basis, and the college or university has the flexibility to select the specific aid or service it provides, as long as it is effective. Colleges and universities are not required by law to provide aides, services, or devices for personal use, study, or to design special academic programs. After equal access is provided by the institution, it is the student's responsibility to demonstrate their abilities. Section 504 and the ADA do not require postsecondary institutions to alter their requirements for either admissions or graduation. Students with disabilities need to know that the level of responsibility regarding the provision of services changes after high school. Once the student has been admitted to a college or university it is the student's responsibility to self-identify and provide documentation of the disability. The college or university may not provide any accommodations until a student takes both steps. |
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