If your child has a disability, they are eligible for numerous support services such as community care services, social work services, personal assistance, psychological counseling, and rehabilitation.
Students seeking disability accommodations must first identify as having a disability as defined by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the American Disabilities Act (ADA).
Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act
In 1973, the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in programs administered by Federal agencies and programs receiving federal financial assistance, in Federal employment practices, and those of contractors employed by them. Furthermore, employers must take affirmative action to recruit, hire, promote, and retain these individuals.
Section 503 discrimination standards are similar to those employed in Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) enforces Section 503 and helps federal contractors and subcontractors meet their affirmative action obligations. Recently, OFCCP revised Section 503 regulations in order to strengthen contractors’ obligations and expand opportunities for people with disabilities in the workplace.
Workers’ Compensation
An occupational injury or illness can leave a person facing mounting medical bills and other costs. But there are benefits available to help alleviate some of these burdens.
Workers’ compensation is a program that offers cash benefits for time away from work and medical care when an employee suffers an injury or sickness on the job.
Benefits also include death benefits, which help family members replace some of the money they lose if a loved one passes away due to a work-related injury or illness.
If you experience an injury or become ill while at work, it’s essential to understand your rights under New York state law and how you can access disability support services that will assist you.
Workers’ compensation is a complex system, so you need an experienced lawyer to protect your rights.
New York State Disability Services Council
The New York State disability support services Services Council (NYSDSC) is an autonomous professional association comprised of individuals responsibleEach year, they host two conferences to bring together disability service offices, campus resource centers and students from throughout New York State.
In addition to advocating and supporting college disability services offices, the NYSDSC also advocates on behalf of students with disabilities. Through Student Empowerment Day – a statewide event held each year – individuals living with disabilities and their supporters can engage with legislators about increasing disability funding.
The City College of New York’s AccessAbility Center/Student Disability Services ensures full participation and meaningful access to all CCNY programs, services, and activities in accordance with federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws.
Accommodations for Students
Educational accommodations are modifications that can make learning easier or more accessible for students with disabilities.
Accommodations may require changes in the teaching or testing environment, such as using Braille materials for visually impaired students.
At a college’s disability support services office, staff will determine which accommodation is appropriate for each student based on documentation of their condition and functional needs assessment. They also take into account goals and needs, medical records, psychological records, as well as legal rights and responsibilities of the college.