New Students
Denyse M. Wilhelm, Assistant Dean of Academic Resources and Disability Services, ADA/504 Coordinator, is available to meet with students and family members prior to admission on an appointment basis. Students and their families often schedule appointments when they are on campus to interview with the Office of Admission or during Visiting Days. We invite you to contact Dean Wilhelm to access academic accommodations.
Here are some questions to consider:
When and to whom do I submit my documentation?
Documentation should be submitted after you have received written notice of your acceptance to Wheaton and have decided to attend. Please print and complete the Learning Needs Disclosure Form and submit it along with your documentation. This form will also be in included in your new student information packet which is mailed to every student in late May. Please send all documentation to Dean Wilhelm; Wheaton College, 26 East Main St. Filene Center for Academic Advising and Career Services, Norton, MA 02766.
Does Wheaton have a separate disabilities program?
No. Students are mainstreamed and disability support services are provided on a request basis for students with a documented disability.
How many staff i.e. learning specialists, coaches, and directors are available?
Wheaton does not provide intensive supports such as coaching thus there is not this level of staffing. Dean Wilhelm is available to work with students who disclose a disability.
How many students with learning disabilities receive services?
Approximately 11% of the entire student body will disclose prior to admission or early on in their first semester. Of that, approximately 60% will activate their accommodations.
Are there evening hours?
No. The office is open Monday through Friday between 8:30 - 4:30 throughout the year.
Is there a special orientation for students with disabilities?
Yes. The College offers a two day pre-orientation program for students with disabilities called Abilities 1st! pre-orientation schedule Fall 2012. Students can elect to move on campus two days prior to the freshman class and participate in a small group orientation program. For a full schedule please visit Abilities 1st!
What kind of Assistive Technology is available for students?
Assistive Technology is provided by Library and Information Services (LIS). Dean Wilhelm coordinates the use of specialized software and equipment to scan reading material. Students can arrange to obtain textbooks and other materials in alternative formats. More information is available from LIS.
Is priority registration available? Who helps students with registration?
This is determined on a case by case basis which is coordinated by the First Year Associate Dean, Dean Wilhelm and the Office of the Registrar.
Can students take a reduced course load if necessary?
Yes; provided that their documentation identifies this as an accommodation. Dean Wilhelm will assist the student to petition from a full course load of 4 courses to three courses.
Is there one-to-one tutoring available for students with disabilities?
No. Academic content tutoring is available through a peer group format conducted by students who have been screened by the specific academic department and recommended to the Tutoring Coordinator. However for writing, there are tutors and faculty associates who provide one-to-one services for all students. Please visit the Filene Center for Academic Advising for more information.
Is there a foreign language and/or math waiver?
Waivers are not permitted however, Dean Wilhelm will assist students to petition for a foreign language substitution.
There is not a waiver for the math requirement, however there are courses which integrate math concepts within a discipline. This is a viable option for students who do not require a standard math course for their major.
For students who are not math and/or foreign language majors, Wheaton allows students to transfer credits earned as long as it meets the departments' criteria. Dean Wilhelm can assist with the transfer authorization process.
How do I make a request for housing accommodations?
You must complete a housing accommodation application available in the Office of Residential Life and then arrange a consultation meeting with a representative who has reviewed your documentation. Decisions for housing accommodations are made by Residential Life, Filene Center for Academic Advising and Career Services, Counseling and Health Services.
Are there career and internship services?
Yes. The Filene Center for Academic Advising and Career Services provides comprehensive one to one services for students through out their educational career. There are numerous opportunities to apply for fellowships to fund unpaid summer internships. Students are encouraged to seek out these resume building opportunities.
More information on documentation criteria, temporary accommodations, the Americans with Disabilities Act and Grievance Policy and Procedures are available via the Disabilities home page.
