Resources

NOTE: If you know of any resources or links that should be included, or if you have a question that you feel should be answered on this page, please contact Mr. William Chabala.

Any reasonable suggestions will be considered.
Thank you.

ON-CAMPUS RESOURCES

IN-STATE RESOURCES

OUT OF STATE  RESOURCES

GENERAL INFORMATION SITES

SPECIFIC INFORMATION SITES

EDUCATION RESOURCES SITES

LEGAL INFORMATION SITES

• ABA Commission on Mental and Physical Disability Law
• Government/Legislative Resources
• U.S. Department of Justice Office on the ADA

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY & RESOURCES

SUPPORT GROUP SITES

FAQs

We have provided answers to some of the more commonly asked questions. If you have additional questions or need more specific answers please contact our office: Annette Mase

What constitutes a disability?

A disability is defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 0f 1973 as a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more life activities. Learning is an example of a major life activity. If you have a mental or physical condition, a history of such a condition, or a condition which may be considered by others as substantially limiting, you may have a legally defined disability.

What does substantially limiting mean?

According to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, substantially limiting is defined as being unable to perform a major life activity, or being significantly restricted as to the condition, manner or duration under which a major life activity can be performed (in comparison to the average person or to most people).

What is a major life activity?

According to Section 504, a major life activity is defined as caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.

What are academic adjustments?

Appropriate academic adjustments create an equal access to education, as long as it doesn't require a substantial change in an essential element of the curriculum. This is determined by the institution. Such modifications may include an adjustment in the amount of time allowed to complete a degree, substitution of degree requirements, and adaptation of the manner in which specific courses are conducted.

If I register for services, will it show up on my permanent record?

No, it won't. What is considered a student's permanent record, which is maintained by the registrar's office, is completely separate from the record maintained in this office.

What arrangements should be made for testing for a disability and what is 'appropriate documentation'?

The checklist provided below is intended to assist you in finding a qualified evaluator to assess for a disability and to inform you as to what documentation is required by our office in order for you to receive services.

Qualifications of Evaluator

• Qualified Evaluator:
  • Learning disabilities: licensed or certified psychologist or neuro-psychologist
  • All other disabilities: appropriate per the specific disability (e.g., licensed or certified psychologist, neuropsychologist, medical doctor, psychiatrist)
• Assessment report should be typed on letterhead and must be dated, signed and legible
• The name, title and professional credentials of the evaluator must be clearly stated
• The evaluator should be experienced working with adolescents/adults with the particular disability being assessed

Documentation:

• The assessment report must be recent and appropriate (i.e., it includes current deficits and their effect(s) on academic functioning)
  • Learning disability assessments should include:
    1. a complete intellectual assessment with all subtests and standard scores reported;
    2. a comprehensive academic achievement battery with all subtests and standard scores reported;
    3. an assessment of specific areas of information processing (memory, auditory/visual perception, processing speed, executive functioning, motor ability);
    4. a statement of the specific diagnosis; and
    5. a profile of strengths and weaknesses
  • Assessments of all other disabilities should include:
    1. a description of relevant physical or sensory deficits;
    2. medical diagnosis;
    3. a medical history of condition and current medication regimen (if any); and
    4. a psychiatric assessment, if relevant

For further information contact:

• Center of Services for Students with Disabilities - (570)662-4695
  or
• State System office of social equity - (717)720-4040

I am a high school senior and I want to attend Mansfield University. I have a learning disability. What do I need to do to register with your office?

Our office is not a direct participant in the admissions process. Prospective students with or without disabilities need to work with the Admissions Office and follow their guidelines.

• Admissions: (570) 662-4243 or 1-800-577-6825

After a student is admitted to Mansfield University, an appointment can be made with the SSD Coordinator. The student with a learning disability should be prepared to provide a copy of his/her documentation which will be evaluated by our Coordinator. Documentation Guidelines

My transfer GPA is not high enough to get into Mansfield University, but I have a disability that affected my grades. Is there anything your office can do to help me get admitted?

A student in this particular situation is always encouraged to write a letter of explanation and/or appeal (if admission has been denied) detailing his/her academic record. This letter should be sent to the Transfer Admissions Office where it will be reviewed by an admissions committee. Our office is not involved in the admissions process; however, it is used (on occasion) as a resource by the Admissions Office.

I am not doing very well in school this semester, and I believe that I have a learning disability. Can I get tested in your office for that?

Educational testing is not administered in our office. However, the Learning Center does provide a preliminary LD/ADD assessment for Mansfield University students. This screening can indicate the advisability of more specialized assessment. Our office can assist students in finding assessment sources outside the University community.

I am on crutches for a temporary injury. Can I get a special parking permit?

Yes. Temporarily disabled parking permits for students can be obtained at Campus Police. Call (570)662-4900 for more information.

I have a hand/arm injury. How can I take my tests?

If you feel assisstance is necessary, please contact our office. Volunteer scribes may be available for testing and other tasks (such as typing).

I am on crutches/in a wheelchair -- is there any service to help me get to my classes?

Regretfully, there is no special transit on campus for students (or anyone else) with mobility difficulties. However, our staff is adept at problem solving. Give us a call at (570)662-4695.

Contact Us

143 South Hall

Prof. William Chabala, Director
(570) 662 - 4825

Annette Mase, Admin Assistant
(570) 662 - 4436