Why Are Disability Services Important?

The links in this column will change the page to the section you select.

Once an individual leaves the K-12 system, the rules change. Different laws cover the post secondary system. As stated in Section 1: Self-Advocacy, the protections and services provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) end with high school graduation or when a student ages out at 21 years old. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act govern the post secondary education system. For more information on disability law, go to the Disability Law section of the Post-ITT Web site.

In high school, it is the responsibility of the school to meet the learning needs of your son or daughter. Once in college, he or she must find a way to meet those needs. The activities in this section are designed to increase knowledge of the support available at college and to give practice in advocating for those services. Developing this understanding and practicing self-advocacy skills while in high school helps pave the way for a smooth transition to college.

The following Web resources are a helpful supplement to this section.

Self-Determination: Assuming Control of Your Plans for Post secondary Education by Sharon Field, Ed. D. can be found on the Heath Web site.

The DO-IT Faculty Room site -- The DO-IT Faculty Room site posts rights and responsibilities for faculty, campus services and students with disabilities.

Auxiliary Aids and Services for Post secondary Students with Disabilities, published by the United States Office for Civil Rights .

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