University of North Alabama

Disability Support Service (DSS)

Disability-Related Attendance Accommodations

The ADA stipulates that colleges and universities are not required to make changes that “fundamentally alter” the essential course requirements or formats. However, some negotiated flexibility in attendance and tardiness policies may be appropriate due to disability-related reasons where educationally feasible. Requests for attendance flexibility are determined on a case-by-case basis.

The following criteria are considered when determining flexibility in attendance and tardiness:

The predictability of the disability-related limitation, i.e., random, cyclical, triggered episodes

The typical frequency and/or duration of occurrences

Any identified triggers or cycles

University attendance and tardiness policies:

The Disability Support Services office does not determine class attendance policies nor excuse class absences. Since attendance is typically integral to the learning process, the faculty and/or department determine these policies. In most cases attendance is fundamental to course objectives. For example, students may be required to think and argue critically or to participate in group projects. Occasionally, faculty may determine that students can master course content despite absences. Rarely, faculty may determine that course attendance is not critical. Similarly, faculty also determine policies regarding make-up work and missed quizzes and exams. Faculty are not required to lower standards or course requirements to accommodate students.

Students should note that an accommodation granting flexibility in attendance may impact academic performance. Flexibility in attendance and tardiness must always be negotiated with professors, taking into consideration the nature of the course, number of absences and other pertinent course-related requirements.

The provision of accommodations is a shared responsibility between faculty members, the student, and the Disability Support Service.

Student Responsibilities:
1. Students are required to submit appropriate disability documentation prior to receiving accommodations and services from the DSS Office. NOTE: Faculty are not obligated to provide accommodations until receiving a student’s accommodation letter which will be sent electronically from the DSS office.

2. Students should carefully review faculty policies and procedures for attendance and make-up work announced in class and/or on the class syllabus.

3. Students are to refer to the course syllabus to locate the attendance policy. Once the student has missed half (1/2) the allotted course absences, they are to contact the DSS office immediately to schedule an appointment to discuss accommodations further. For example, if the course allows for eight absences, at the fourth missed classes, the student will contact the DSS office.

Students must contact professors as early in the semester as possible to initiate discussions regarding attendance polices and missed assignment/test ramifications.

Students who miss class for disability-related reasons, will be required to provide appropriate verifying documentation to the DSS office for absences caused by manifestations of their disability. The type of verifying document required should be discussed with the professor at the beginning of the semester. Verifying documentation must verify a legitimate need for absence/tardiness related to the disability, but the specific diagnosis need not be disclosed. The verification of disability-related absences typically does not apply to routine health-care appointments.

If the student encounters an unexpected/long-term disability-related circumstance, such as an emergency hospitalization or illness, the student must notify professors and the DSS as soon as possible, to arrange for professor-approved make-up tests and/or assignments.

Options When Attendance is Inadequate to Meet Course Requirements:
If the student cannot meet attendance requirements, then the student may not be "otherwise qualified" to attend school until the disability-related cause is addressed. If the disability negatively impacts attendance, potential actions include initiating a Withdrawal or requesting a grade of “Incomplete.” Consult with your professor for a possible grade of “Incomplete” and the Registrar for a Withdrawal. Medical withdrawals are processed through the University Case Manager.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the implications of flexibility in attendance policies as an accommodation.

Student Signature: ___________________________Date:________________

Student’s Name Printed: _______________________________________

Revised 8-23-17, scl11/18/2020