Syllabus Statement Guide: Accessibility Services
Including a disability statement on course syllabi is an effective way to communicate that our institution welcomes and encourages all students, including those who have disabilities, to participate in our programs, services and activities.
The following sample statement suggests that we have a welcoming educational environment at Wheaton, and indicates that there is a process to follow before accommodations can be made. Including contact information is also a good way to make sure that students have the right information to quickly access resources that can support their needs:
Wheaton College is committed to providing equal access to learning opportunities for students with documented disabilities. To ensure access to this class and your program, the Accessibility Services team is available to engage in a confidential conversation about the process for requesting accommodations in the classroom and other settings, as well as accessing academic support services. Please schedule an appointment by sending an email to: [email protected], or drop by the Filene Center.
Appointments and disability documentation must be completed and submitted at the beginning of the semester; accommodations are not provided retroactively. Students seeking disability supports are encouraged to register with Accessibility Services as soon as they begin their program of study. Upon review and determination of appropriate accommodations, students are responsible for follow-up with their individual faculty. Wheaton College encourages students to access all resources available for consistent and ongoing support.
Syllabus Statement Guide: Academic Supports
Faculty may also find it helpful to include information regarding the Filene Center for Academic Advising, Support & Accessibility to encourage all students to make use of a wide variety of academic support services. The following is a sample syllabus statement with relevant information:
Filene Center for Academic Advising, Support & Accessibility | Filene Center @ Kollett Hall (Discovery Center)
The Filene Center for Academic Advising, Support & Accessibility is dedicated to helping all Wheaton College students achieve their academic goals by providing them with the academic support crucial to building and strengthening their skills. The Filene Center team fosters a supportive and productive learning environment by helping students to explore their academic potential and strive toward excelling in their chosen field of study. Student Success Advisors, Peer Advisors, Peer Coaches, and Peer Tutors are available for scheduled appointments and drop-in sessions for specific advising support, questions about academic policies/processes, using academic technology (DegreeWorks, Canvas, College Catalog, Course Search tools, Starfish), managing time/organization, tutoring support, study groups, workshops, and general assistance.
These benefits are available by appointment and drop-in during normal operating hours (M-F 8:30am-4:30pm, Fall & Spring semesters) and are free of charge to all Wheaton College students. Please email [email protected] or drop by the Filene Center to get more information.