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Disability Services

SIT Graduate Institute is committed to creating a learning and living environment that supports students in achieving their academic potential. Differences in ability are valued as an integral component of a diverse student body and campus community. The mission of SIT Disability Services is to facilitate an accessible educational experience for students with disabilities and to serve as a resource to all members of the academic community in advancing this goal.

The policies and procedures of Disability Services help ensure that SIT Graduate Institute is in compliance with federal regulations requiring colleges and universities to provide equal access to education for students with disabilities. In addition, Disability Services strives to provide a range of support for students with disabilities as sensitively and effectively as possible. Students with learning disabilities, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), physical disabilities, or other types of disabilities are encouraged to contact the Disability Services officer for information and support. The programs at SIT Graduate Institute will take you on an exciting and challenging odyssey, and Disability Services is here to provide guidance and assistance.

Types of services we provide

• Assistance in requesting accommodations for a disability
• Support in implementing approved accommodation plans
• Information about and referral for evaluations, tutoring, study skills, coaching, medication management, and community resources
• Individual or group support for ability-related concerns
• Workshops and/or individual consultation on a variety of topics such as:
  • Self-advocacy skills
  • Raising awareness about disability issues
  • How to create accessible materials

How to request accommodations

The first step in applying for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act is for the student with a disability to contact Disability Services for an initial consultation. At that time, we will review the student’s accommodation needs; go over the steps in the accommodation process, including documentation guidelines; and explain the role of Disability Services.

The determination of reasonable accommodations is handled on a case-by-case basis and includes an interactive process between the student and Disability Services. Students who are eligible for disability accommodations will receive a written letter outlining their approved accommodation plan.

Documentation Guidelines
The amount and type of documentation required will depend on the individual situation and specific accommodation requests. Disability documentation submitted to the Disability Services office should be current and provided by a qualified professional. The documentation must be written on that professional’s letterhead, be personally signed by the evaluator, and include the following:

• Functional impact of the stated disability on one or more major life activities
• Specific diagnosis of the disability
• A comprehensive history of the disability and the use of accommodations, if applicable
• Specific evidence of the disability, including any diagnostic tests or other evaluations performed and results, clinical observations, and/or other relevant evidence of the disability
• Recommendations from the evaluator for accommodations, including academic adjustments or auxiliary aids

Please include a copy of the student’s accommodation letter from his/her undergraduate disability office, if available.

A student’s documentation records are confidential and are maintained in the Disability Services office. However, appropriate information may be shared with designated SIT/World Learning staff, in accordance with federal and SIT/World Learning confidentiality policies, for the purpose of processing accommodation requests and facilitating approved disability accommodations.

Please send all inquiries and information to the address, fax, or email listed below:

SIT Disability Services
SIT Graduate Institute
PO Box 676, 1 Kipling Road
Brattleboro, VT 05302

Email: [email protected]  
Phone: 802 258-3390
Fax: 802 258-3252