Accommodation Request Process
Rhodes students who desire accommodations based on disability should complete the following steps through the Office of Student Accessibility Services (SAS) in a timely manner. Students are encouraged to review guidance for the types of accommodations before beginning this process.
Incoming new students may request accommodations once they receive their Rhodes College email address and credentials. Current returning students may request accommodations at any time but are encouraged to connect with SAS as soon as they become aware of a need.
STEP 1: Complete an Accommodation Request Form
- Students with new requests should complete an Accommodation Request Form using their Rhodes email address and credentials.
- Students already registered with SAS who wish to modify existing accommodations should meet with SAS to discuss their request (Schedule with Melissa Butler).
STEP 2: Submit Supporting Documentation
- After submitting an online request form, students will be invited to upload supporting documentation. For convenience, students can ask their healthcare provider to complete the SAS Provider Verification Form or submit a typed letter with this content on office letterhead. Note: The provider must (1) be a qualified professional who is licensed and properly credentialed to diagnose and treat the diagnosed condition, and (2) not be a relative or close family friend of the student.
- Students may also upload additional forms of documentation such as the most recent psychoeducational evaluation, IEP/504/high school accommodation plan, history of accommodations from a prior college, etc.
- Documentation is most beneficial when it provides specific insight into how a disability impacts academic and/or residential experiences and what is necessary for equal access. When provider recommendations are for support to enhance success, the student will be referred to other resources or given options that may address the specific need.
- Students experiencing barriers to getting evaluated for their disability or obtaining supporting documentation should contact SAS@rhodes.edu.
STEP 3: Meet with SAS
We value a collaborative process as we work with students. Once steps 1 and 2 are completed, SAS will email to schedule a meeting to discuss access needs.
Accommodations are not provided retroactively. SAS will attempt to provide a written response to accommodation requests within 14 business days from the receipt of all necessary information. Students seeking to connect with SAS for accommodations should plan accordingly.
Contact SAS@rhodes.edu with questions about the request process.
Request for Reconsideration
When an accommodation request is denied, students are welcome to submit substantially new information to SAS for reconsideration. The new documentation and request for reconsideration should be sent to SAS@rhodes.edu.
Appeal Process
Students wishing to appeal an accommodation decision should email Nicole Johnson, Vice President of Student Life, at vpsl@rhodes.edu within 10 business days of the denial. Included in the message should be a statement permitting SAS to release information related to the request to the Vice President of Student Life. The decision of the Vice President of Student Life will be considered final.