Disability Services: Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQ's)
Who is eligible for services?
Any student (undergraduate or graduate, full or part time) who
has a disability that substantially limits one or more major life
activities is eligible for services from Disability Services. Disabilities
may include hearing, mobility or visual impairments, as well as
hidden disabilities, such as chronic medical conditions (arthritis,
cancer, diabetes, heart disease, asthma, kidney disorder, lupus,
epilepsy, etc.), learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder,
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and psychiatric or emotional
disabilities.
I received special education services in high school, but do not
know if I will need any help in college. Should I register for services?
Yes, you should register for services if you received special education
services in the past or if you have any medical or emotional issues
that substantially limit one or more major life activities.
What does registering for services mean?
Disability Services provides services only to those students who
are qualified under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section
504. We require students to "register" by:
- Meeting with the Director of Disability Services. Call (978)-665-4020
to schedule an appointment.
- Sending your documentation prior to the meeting or bringing
it with you on the day of the appointment.
During the registration for services, we will:
- Answer any questions
- Complete a short, informal interview to obtain emergency information
- Review process of receiving accommodations and services
- Review documentation and determine appropriate accommodations
and services
- Review student's rights and responsibilities
Who has access to my file at Disability Services?
All documentation and information in your file at Disability Services
is confidential. Disability Services cannot release this information
to faculty, staff, or even parents. Disability Services records
never become part of a student's transcript or college record. All
records are kept in locked files. Student employees do not handle
any student records. Massachusetts State Law defines some limits
to confidentiality.
These include:
- A court of law or judge may require staff to produce confidential
information (a very rare occurrence).
- Staff must release confidential information to those who have
a need to know if a client is a danger to him or herself or presents
a danger to others.
- Staff must report any knowledge of abuse or neglect of a child,
elderly person, or person with a disability.
- Staff may release confidential information with your written
consent.
Any other questions contact:
(978)-665-4020
(978)-665-3427 Voice
(978)-665-3575 TTY
711 Relay Service
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