Many students are unaware that they qualify for accommodations at their school. Instead of inquiring about them, they end up suffering through each class, unable to perform at their best. Having an accommodation (or four) in school is nothing to feel bad about. Accommodations were put in place to allow any student to show up and persevere. But schools are slow to offer them to students, and most require the student to request accommodations before they will even discuss it with them.

Accommodations eliminate obstacles and allow students from all types of backgrounds to master the subject they are learning.

Who Qualifies for Accommodations?

Every school will vary on the specific qualifications students need to receive accommodations. For instance, at Imperial Valley College, a student seeking accommodations must be able to meet the requirements of the program they are trying to join (with or without the accommodation), and they must have a documented disability that is defined under the American Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act. But at the University of Utah, students must show that their specific disability exists and that it substantially limits one or more major life activities – like walking or speaking – to qualify for an accommodation.

Getting an Accommodation for a Rare Disability

When students think of “disabilities,” they often imagine blind or deaf individuals or people in wheelchairs. And while they are correct, disabled people come in all shapes and sizes and disabilities. For instance, people with chronic pain and diabetics are disabled. Even if they look completely fine from the outside, they may still require accommodations in school to get the most out of their education.

Other rare or invisible disabilities that qualify for accommodations include psychological disorders, epilepsy, multiple chemical sensitivity, lactose intolerance, and scleroderma. To receive an accommodation, you must contact the administration at your school and follow the exact steps they have outlined for getting help. Generally, you will have to provide documentation of your disability and show how the requested accommodation can help.

How an Attorney-Advisor Can Help

Unfortunately, even when students with disabilities request accommodations, schools are slow to fulfill the request. If you have a disability, whether it is visible or not, and you would like to request accommodations, an attorney-advisor will ensure your voice is heard.

Attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm have spent years helping students in similar situations. They understand how important it is for you to have access to disability accommodations. As such, they will reach out to your school to discuss your request. If the school hesitates to offer you the adaptations you need, Attorney Lento will present evidence and witness testimony to encourage the process. Further, if the school continues to push back on the request, Attorney Lento can advise you on the steps to take next.

Call 888.535.3680 today or schedule a consultation online. All students deserve an equal opportunity when it comes to their education. The Lento Law Firm can help.