How does DSS work?
First, the university must verify the student’s disability and the functional limitations that result. Next, the DSS coordinator and the student discuss the limitations and decide on the appropriate accommodations. Some accommodations are provided by DSS, others require the student to approach his/her instructors. The DSS coordinator will draft a letter for the student to give to their instructors. This letter introduces the student and informs the instructor that the student’s disability has been verified by DSS. It then discusses the functional limitations of the student’s disability and recommends reasonable accommodations. The DSS will provide students with services such as readers, scribes, sign language interpreters, books in alternative format, etc. The DSS staff will let students know the process for requesting these services when needed. DSS typically makes use of a volunteer note taking service for students who need that accommodation. Services such as sign language interpret
