Fall 2020 Disability Support Services Updates

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COVID-19 Updates

The information below is based on current University recommendations. Additional updates may be necessary as the COVID-19 situation evolves. Please continue to check Lehigh’s website for updated information and this page for the most up-to-date Disability Support Services information. 

Fall 2020 Updates

Disability Support Services is committed to providing support for students during remote, in-person, and hybrid mode of instruction. We will be using technology to facilitate the delivery of services.  Please do not hesitate to call 610-758-4152 or email indss@lehigh.edu with any questions.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I register with DSS and request reasonable accommodations?

Lehigh students with disabilities may apply for reasonable accommodations and services at any time.  More information on the process and a link to the registration portal is available at Initial Registration/Request for Services. Please review the Document Guidelines on our website. Documentation may be submitted confidentially by uploading to the Disability Support Services Registration form during initial registration or by emailing indss@lehigh.edu

Once DSS receives your registration and documentation, your file will be added to the queue for review.  DSS engages in an interactive process and reviews requests for reasonable accommodations on a case-by-case and class-by-class basis, so after the initial documentation evaluation is complete, DSS will reach out to schedule an appointment to discuss next steps.  Initial appointments will be held via Zoom, a web-based video conferencing tool, or via phone.  

 
 
How will my accommodations work in the online environment?

In the virtual world, your accommodations will most likely be much the same as they are in the brick and mortar classroom.  For example, you can expect to continue receiving notes through your online portal. If you are a student who receives testing accommodations, it is essential that you reach out to your professors to remind them of your testing accommodations and discuss how they will be provided.  Most online learning platforms allow faculty to extend the time of their exam for students who have extra time, but faculty may need to be reminded to make this adjustment. If you have an accommodation for distraction-reduced testing, you will be responsible for finding an environment that works for you. Careful planning may be necessary to ensure that you have a quiet space in which to take your exam in a busy household. If you have questions or concerns about accommodated testing in the online environment, speak with your professor and contact DSS at indss@lehigh.edu

Can I participate in academic coaching even if I am a remote student?

Any student registered with Disability Support Services may participate in academic coaching.  This fall, all academic coaching sessions will occur virtually via Zoom.  Please note that coaching appointments are scheduled in Eastern Standard Time.  

If you are a student who is registered with DSS but does not currently meet with an academic coach, you can request coaching services by emailing indss@lehigh.edu.

Whom should I contact if I have any questions regarding disability support or accommodations?

Please email indss@ehigh.edu or call our office at 610-758-4152. Please email indss@ehigh.edu or call our office at 610-758-4152. 

Whom should I contact if I have any questions regarding COVID-related illness support or accommodations?

Disability Support Services provides accommodations and services to students with disabilities and those who have impairments expected to last for six months or longer.  Dean McClaind in the office of Academic Life & Student Transitions assists students who may need accommodations due to COVID-19 related illness.  

Whom should I contact if I have any questions regarding support or accommodations for a concussion?

Students experiencing acute concussions should contact Dean McClaind in the office of Academic Life & Student Transitions for temporary accommodations.  Disability Support Services provides accommodations and services to students who have been diagnosed with longer term or chronic impairments such as post-concussive disorder.  

What are Disability Support Services' office hours during fall 2020?

Disabilty Support Services will operate Monday through Friday from 8:15am-4:45pm EST.