Getting Started with DSS
Students may initiate the process for accommodations at any time. However, the accommodation process may take up to 6 weeks to complete so it is important to start the process as early as possible. Accommodations cannot be implemented retroactively.
Disability Support Services Checklist
Please follow the Checklist to get started at WWCC before applying for DSS services. If you have questions or would like more information on services that are available please set up an informational meeting with your campus’ DSS Coordinator. We are looking forward to being a part of your support team here at WWCC!
Step 1: Submit a Disability Accommodation Request Form
This form will ask you to identify your disability and describe the barriers you experience in an educational setting. If you have not been in school recently, think about what you experienced when you were in school, a work, or volunteer setting. During your intake meeting you will have an opportunity to talk more about your experiences.
If you have difficulty filling out the Disability Accommodation Request Form, please contact the DSS coordinator on your campus for assistance.
We use a combination of a student’s self-report, medical records, and educational records (IEP/504) to determine eligibility and reasonable accommodations. If you have medical or educational information such as an IEP or 504 Plan from high school, VA documents, a letter from a counselor, doctor, or otherwise qualified specialists, you can attach it to the Request Form or bring it with you to your intake appointment. If you don’t have access to your medical or educational documentation please plan on attending the appointment anyways. Please don’t delay meeting with us out of a concern for not having the right paperwork.
Step 2: Schedule and Attend an DSS Intake Meeting
Within 5 business days of receiving your form, the DSS office will reach out to you to schedule an Intake Meeting. This meeting is typically one hour long and can be conducted in-person or online. It will be a conversation between you and the DSS Coordinator regarding your disability information, the barriers you encounter in an educational setting, what supports you’ve used in the past that have helped, and what accommodations you feel would provide access in your WWCC classes.
The DSS Coordinator will review all of the information provided to determine if you qualify as a student with a disability and what reasonable accommodations would provide access and remove barriers. You will be notified by email the result of your meeting within 2-7 business days after your meeting. If approved your instructors will receive a letter outlining your approved accommodations.
To maintain confidentiality, we will conduct all communication with you through your WWCC student email account.
If you would like anyone to join your DSS Intake Meeting please fill out a Release to Access Educational Records Form. We recommend you fill out this form 5 business days before our meeting. You are also able to withdrawal your release at any time.
Once Registered with DSS
Don’t forget:
- Check your WWCC student email for a copy of your Letter of Accommodation. This will be sent out the week prior to the start of the quarter. If you apply for accommodations during the quarter you are requesting them. The letter will be shared with instructors as soon as you have been approved.
- Additional process may be required if you are approved for assistive technology or equipment loaners.
- Reach out to your instructors regarding the implementation of your accommodations in their class.
- Request your accommodations to be renewed each quarter. Students can request their accommodations immediately after registering for the next quarter. For your accommodations to be shared with instructors before the start of the quarter please request your renewal a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the start of the quarter.
- Familiarize yourself with other campus supports available to students.