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ADA · Section 504 · Academic Accommodations
DISABILITY SERVICES
Lawson State is committed to providing equal access to all programs and activities. Students with documented disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations under the ADA and Section 504.
Your Rights: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, students with qualifying disabilities are entitled to equal access and reasonable academic accommodations. Lawson State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of disability.
Available Support
ACCOMMODATIONS WE OFFER
Extended Test Time
Qualified students receive 1.5× or 2× standard test time for in-class exams and finals.
Reduced-Distraction Testing
Testing in a quiet room away from the general student population to minimize distractions.
Note-Taking Assistance
Peer note-takers or instructor-provided notes for students who cannot take adequate notes due to their disability.
Accessible Course Materials
Conversion of textbooks, handouts, and course content to accessible formats (electronic text, large print, audio).
Captioning & Interpreting
Sign language interpreters and real-time captioning (CART) for deaf and hard-of-hearing students in classes and campus events.
Priority Registration
Early registration access to ensure students can select class schedules that accommodate their needs.
Assistive Technology
Screen readers, magnification software, speech-to-text tools, and other AT available in campus computer labs.
Accessible Parking & Facilities
Accessible parking permits, building access coordination, and facility accommodation requests.
Who Qualifies
QUALIFYING CONDITIONS
Many conditions and disabilities qualify for academic accommodations. The list below is representative, not exhaustive — if you have a diagnosis or condition that affects your ability to participate fully in your education, contact us to discuss eligibility.
- ›Learning disabilities (dyslexia, dyscalculia, processing disorders)
- ›Attention-deficit disorders (ADHD/ADD)
- ›Physical disabilities (mobility, chronic conditions, pain)
- ›Visual impairments and blindness
- ›Hearing impairments and deafness
- ›Mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
- ›Autism spectrum disorder
- ›Traumatic brain injury
- ›Temporary disabilities (injury, surgery, recovery)
Confidential · Free · Required by Law
ACCOMMODATIONS DO NOT LOWER STANDARDS
Accommodations give you equal access — not an advantage. They ensure that your disability doesn't prevent you from demonstrating what you actually know. Academic expectations remain the same for all students.
Step by Step
HOW TO REQUEST ACCOMMODATIONS
Submit an Application
Contact Student Affairs or the Disability Services office to request an accommodation application form. Applications are accepted any time, but early submission is encouraged before the semester begins.
Provide Documentation
Submit documentation from a licensed professional (physician, psychologist, audiologist, etc.) that diagnoses the disability and recommends accommodations. Documentation must be current (typically within 3–5 years).
Meet with a Counselor
A Disability Services counselor reviews your documentation and meets with you to determine which accommodations are appropriate for your situation. Your input matters — tell us what works for you.
Receive Your Accommodation Letter
Once approved, you receive a formal accommodation letter each semester to share with your instructors. Accommodations do not appear on transcripts or other academic records.
Apply Early
The accommodation review process takes time. Apply before the semester starts so accommodations are in place for your first exam. Late requests are still processed, but may delay when you can use your accommodations.
Common Questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED
Do accommodations appear on my transcript?
No. Disability accommodations are kept confidential and do not appear on transcripts, diplomas, or any academic records shared with employers or other institutions.
What if my instructor refuses to honor my accommodations?
Contact the Disability Services office immediately. Your accommodation letter is a formal notice of your legal rights under the ADA. Instructors are required to honor approved accommodations.
Do I have to re-apply every semester?
You renew your accommodation letter each semester, but full re-documentation is not required unless your condition or needs change significantly.
I have a temporary injury — can I still get accommodations?
Yes. Temporary conditions such as broken limbs, post-surgery recovery, and acute illness can qualify for short-term accommodations. Contact us as soon as possible.
Are accommodations the same as "extra help" or tutoring?
No. Accommodations level the playing field — they do not lower academic standards or give you unfair advantages. Tutoring and academic support are separate services available at the R.A.C.E. Center.
Disability Services Office
205.929.6437 · Student Affairs · Both campuses
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