Dear Faculty:
Since one out of ten students enrolled at the College of the Redwoods has a disability which has been verified by Programs and Services for Students with Disabilities (DSPS), it is very likely that an instructor will have at least one student with a disability in each class.
It is also likely that there is at least one student in your class who is eligible for services but who does not know that services are available. Other students, particularly those with learning disabilities, may not know that they have a disability and that DSPS offers diagnostic testing. There may also be students in your class who have disabilities but who choose not to disclose that information to anyone at the college.
The goal of this faculty handbook is to offer you, the instructional faculty, suggestions and resources so that students with disabilities who enroll in your class have an equal opportunity to succeed. This does not mean that all students will succeed in your class, but rather that they have equal access to the instruction that you provide.
Whether you are a seasoned instructor or this is your first semester teaching, we trust that the information in the handbook will increase your confidence in working with students with disabilities -- in knowing what to do, whom to ask if questions arise, and where to go to get additional information.
The information in this handbook is intended to facilitate interaction between you and your student. We at DSPS look forward to working with you and the student to ensure appropriate accommodations. We encourage you to contact us with any question you have about services or how we can work together to support students success at CR. We also invite your input and ideas.
We look forward to working with you. Please contact DSPS on your campus or drop by any of our locations.
Sincerely,
The Staff and Faculty of Programs and Services for Students with Disabilities