Qualifying for and Obtaining Disability Services
There are several laws that address the responsibilities of MCTC toward individuals with disabilities, which include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act and the Minnesota Human Rights Act. The laws apply only if an individual establishes that he or she meets the legal definition of 'disabled'.
- First, the college must not discriminate against individuals on the basis of disability. A 'qualified' individual with a documented disability is someone who, with or without reasonable accommodation, meets the essential eligibility requirements for the receipt of services or the participation in programs, services or activities provided by MCTC. The college may not treat qualified individuals with disabilities differently from individuals without disabilities or have a policy that has a negative impact on individuals with disabilities.
- Second, the college must provide access to programs and services and reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with documented disabilities.
Obtaining Disability Services
First, request accommodations and provide documentation of your disability to Disability Services, who will evaluate the request. Documentation should reflect the nature of the disability and how it affects you in an academic setting. If your disability has changed, MCTC may request a current evaluation of your condition to determine reasonable accommodations. Accommodations are arranged each term, so you need to contact your Disability Services advisor prior to or at the beginning of each term.
If the accommodations do not meet your needs, notify Disability Services in writing. If you have attempted to resolve the issue but feel that MCTC has failed to meet your needs, you may file a complaint. Complaints generally are about issues such as:
- Accommodations provided
- Timely implementation of accommodations
- Access to buildings
- Access to information
The complaint process is as follows:
- Talk to the Disability Services Director about your concern. Usually a complaint can be resolved at this informal level.
- File a grievance with the MCTC's ADA Compliance Officer. The College's ADA Compliance Officer will work with you to resolve your complaint.
- File a complaint directly with the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights by calling 1-800-421-3481 or the Minnesota Department of Human Rights by calling 1-651-296-5663 (Voice) or 1-651-296-1283 (TTY).
If you believe you have been discriminated against or harassed because of your disability you may bring a complaint under the MnSCU Board Policy 1.B.1. Nondiscrimination in Employment and Educational Opportunity. To do so, contact the Director of Legal Affairs or Disability Services.
