Disability Accommodation Concerns, Reconsideration, and Grievances

The Office of Disability Support Services (DSS) at Trinity Washington University upholds the rights of students with disabilities to access reasonable accommodations in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended.

DSS also supports student self-advocacy and the right to raise concerns or pursue a grievance related to disability, accommodations, or the implementation of approved accommodations.

Accommodation Concerns and Review Procedures

Students are encouraged to first discuss disability- and/or accommodation-related concerns with the individual or office involved when appropriate. The appropriate pathway may depend on the nature of the concern.

Implementation of Approved Accommodations

If a concern involves how an approved accommodation is being implemented by a faculty member, academic program, or other university office or service, the student should generally first address the concern with the individual or office responsible for implementing the accommodation.

If the concern cannot be resolved, the student should contact the DSS Director. The DSS Director will work with the student and other involved parties, as appropriate, to clarify the approved accommodation, address concerns regarding its implementation, and seek resolution.

If the matter remains unresolved, further review may proceed through Trinity’s Complaints and Grievances process.

Reconsideration of DSS Accommodation Determinations

A student who disagrees with an accommodation determination made by DSS may request reconsideration of the determination. The request should be submitted in writing to the DSS Director and should explain the basis for the request. The student may also provide any additional information or documentation that the student would like DSS to consider.

The DSS Director will review the request and any relevant information previously submitted as part of the accommodation process. The DSS Director may meet with the student, request additional information when appropriate, and/or consult with other university personnel as necessary to evaluate the request.

The DSS Director will generally provide the student with a written determination within ten (10) business days after receiving the request for reconsideration and any information necessary to review the request. If additional time is necessary to complete the review, DSS will notify the student.

If the student remains dissatisfied with the accommodation determination following reconsideration, the student may seek further review through Trinity’s Complaints and Grievances process.

Formal Grievances

Formal complaints should be submitted in writing and include relevant information concerning the issue, any steps already taken to address the concern, and the resolution being requested.

If a disability affects a student’s ability to submit a written request for reconsideration or grievance, the student may contact DSS to request an alternative accessible method for submitting the information.

Further review of unresolved disability- or accommodation-related complaints will proceed in accordance with Trinity’s Complaints and Grievances process and the nature of the matter involved.