Students

Fairmont State University is committed to creating and maintaining a community that welcomes different perspectives and expands opportunities for all, including qualified individuals with disabilities. Fairmont State University is committed to the principle that no qualified individual with a disability shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of the University, or be subjected to discrimination.

The Office of Accessibility Services at Fairmont State University facilitates academic, housing, and dietary accommodations. This is done through an interactive process so that each students accommodations are individualized to their needs. Accommodations are provided on a case-by-case basis. To qualify, the student must have a current condition that substantially limits a major life activity, and the accommodation request must be necessary and reasonable. A diagnosis or provider recommendation, in and of itself, does not automatically qualify one for accommodations.

It is the responsibility of the student to self-identify as having a qualifying disability and to seek and obtain specific accommodations, aids and services. Fairmont State University cannot assume responsibility for providing accommodations or services to students who have not identified themselves to the Office of Accessibility Services as having a qualifying disability.

Students must request accommodations and provide staff with documentation of their disabilities per the appropriate Request for Information Form (see the appropriate page for the type of accommodation being requested). Accessibility Services staff will:

• Engage in an interactive process with each student to understand how his/her/their disability intersects with the institutional environment and how accommodation(s) would reduce barriers.
• Ensure that accommodations do not fundamentally alter essential components of the course, program, activity, or experience.
• Monitor the utilization of accommodations and consult with students, faculty, and staff as needed.

If a student disagrees with the decision of the Office of Accessibility Services regarding a request for an accommodation, the student may submit an appeal within thirty (30) days of the decision. An appeal must be directed in writing to the Title IX Coordinator. An appeal should identify the specific accommodation requested and denied, explain the current impacts of their disability to daily life activities, and address why the accommodation is necessary for equal access (having received accommodation from a previous institution or in the K-12 system is not in itself a sufficient basis).

Any person who believes that they have been subjected to discrimination are encouraged to file a complaint in order to resolve any disputes. A complaint must be directed in writing to the Title IX Coordinator.

The filing of an appeal or complaint will not subject anyone to any form of adverse action, reprimand, retaliation or otherwise negative treatment by Fairmont State University.