Disability and access services
Commitment to Accessibility
Allegheny Valley College (AVC) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, accessible learning environment for all students. We understand that each student’s needs are unique, and we strive to ensure that students with disabilities have access to the resources, accommodations, and support they need to succeed. Our approach centers on providing individualized support, respecting privacy, and promoting equal access to academic resources.
Our Accessibility Approach
AVC adheres to the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, working to:
- Ensure all academic programs and resources are accessible to students with disabilities.
- Provide reasonable, tailored accommodations to support individual learning needs.
- Maintain strict confidentiality of student information related to disability services and accommodations.
Eligibility and Documentation
Students seeking accommodations are required to submit documentation from a licensed professional that verifies the disability and explains how it may impact the student’s academic experience. Documentation should:
- Reflect the student’s current abilities and limitations.
- Be recent enough to represent the student’s current condition.
- Be from a qualified professional, such as a licensed physician, psychologist, or relevant specialist.
Our Disability and Access Services Office will work closely with each student to review the documentation, assess their needs, and determine appropriate accommodations.
Services and Accommodations
AVC offers a wide range of academic accommodations to support student success. Our services are designed to address various needs and may include:
Academic Accommodations
Alternate testing environments in virtual proctored settings
Extended time on exams and assignments
Flexible deadlines and adjustments to assignment structures
Assistive Technology Use
Assistance in setting up compatible technology for ease of learning
Permission to use personal assistive devices, such as mobile phones or digital recorders, for note-taking and class activities
Access to digital resources that support learning, such as speech-to-text tools
Alternative Testing and Assignment Support
Customization of assignment formats to better align with a student’s abilities
Provisions for virtual testing accommodations tailored to meet each student’s specific needs
Requesting Accommodations
To access disability support services at AVC, follow these steps:
Ongoing Support and Adjustment: Our Disability and Access Services Office will coordinate with faculty and staff to implement accommodations, and we encourage students to communicate any evolving needs so we can provide ongoing support.
Contact the Disability and Access Services Office: Send an email to initiate the process and schedule a consultation. We encourage students to reach out before the semester begins to ensure accommodations are in place from the start.
Submit Documentation: Provide documentation that describes the nature of the disability and its impact on learning. Documentation must be from a licensed professional and meet AVC’s standards.
Consult with Our Team: During your consultation, we will discuss specific needs, review your documentation, and determine the accommodations that will best support your academic success.
Confidentiality and Advocacy
AVC is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of all student records related to disability services. Information will only be shared with faculty and staff directly involved in the accommodation process, ensuring that students’ privacy is respected. Our Disability and Access Services Office advocates for students, helping them navigate their academic journey with the necessary tools for success.
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please reach out to:
Disability and Access Services Office
We Are Here to Help!
AVC is committed to supporting students in achieving their academic goals in an inclusive, accessible environment. If you have questions about accommodations or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to empower you on your journey to success.