Legal Rights: Access, Requirements and Support

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (1973) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) ensure that all qualified persons have equal access to education regardless of the presence of any disabling conditions.

Access means more than admission; it means providing support services and accommodations to students who need them.

Self-Identification and Documentation

Under The Act, a disability means “with respect to an individual, a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such an individual; a record of such an impairment; or being regarded as having such an impairment.” Disabilities may include, but are not limited to: sensory impairments, mobility impairments, chronic illnesses, recovering alcoholism, cancer in remission, a history of mental illness and specific learning disabilities.

This document is also available in alternative formats upon request.

Questions? Contact...

General Office Contact
Paresky Room 203
(413) 597-4672

Katy Evans
Interim Director of Accessible Education
Paresky Room 203A
(413) 597-4672

Jean Grant
Interim Assistant Director of Accessible Education
Paresky Room 203E
(413) 597-4672