Medical/Health Disabilities

Students may have health impairments (e.g., epilepsy, Crohn's disease) that may require academic adjustments. Such adjustments include, but are not limited to, extended time to allow for rest periods to combat fatigue and/or lower distraction test taking settings to reduce stress that may trigger attacks.

Documentation Guidelines for Medical/Health Disabilities Verification

In order to provide a student with academic accommodations, verification of the disability is needed. The information should be current and comprehensive. It should include the following:

1. Documentation from a licensed professional, qualified in the appropriate specialty area.
2. Documentation that includes diagnostic information and an explanation of the current manifestations or functional limitations of the condition. It should be thorough enough to demonstrate if a major life activity is substantially limited i.e. the extent, duration, and impact of the condition.
3. Documentation of a chronic or progressive condition should include the degree and range of functioning.
4. The impact of medications or other treatments on major life activities.
5. Current treatment plan.

The documentation is to be given to the Coorinator for Students with Disabilities: 444 Green Street, Room 134H, Gardner, MA 01440 (either sent directly by the licensed professional or hand carried by the student). Upon student request , the counselor will determine appropriate academic adjustments and make arrangements to provide auxiliary learning aid assistance and support services to students in accordance with their documented needs. Students must make an appointment to see the counselor to discuss and arrange for any appropriate academic adjustments. Accommodations are not “automatic.”