DSS Grievance Policy

The Office of Disability Support Services (DSS) at Trinity Washington University upholds the rights of students with disabilities to secure academic accommodations in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990 and 2008 Amendments).

Additionally, DSS supports student self-advocacy and the right to pursue a grievance or appeal related to disability and/or accommodated-related matters.

Grievance Procedure

Students are encouraged to discuss disability and/or accommodation-related concerns the individual with whom the issue involves.

1. If the matter is about a specific issue involving a faculty member, the student should first attempt to resolve the complaint directly with the faculty member responsible for the topic in question.
2. If the concern or complaint is about an academic program, the student should address the complaint to the dean of the academic unit.

If no resolution can be reached, the student should submit their grievance/complaint to the DSS Director. A formal grievance/complaint must be submitted in writing and include all pertinent information concerning the individual’s complaint. The DSS Director will work with the student and other involved parties in order to address the situation and seek resolution.

If the DSS Director cannot find a pathway to resolution, the situation will be escalated to the Provost for next steps, as outlined in Trinity’s formal process for grievances and complaints.