Accessibility is a core value at MCLA. Everyday our staff work with students who have a variety of disabilities ~ providing academic support services, individualized accomodations, and self-advocacy guidance.
Helping build pathways to learning for students with disabilities.
MCLA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to students with documented disabilities. We work to provide students with equitable access to all MCLA programs and services. Our philosophy and programs assist eligible students in fostering independence in college to the fullest extent possible, embracing self-advocacy, and in developing skills to transition and succeed in their careers. We believe that disability is a natural part of human variation and an essential aspect of diversity.
The Office of Disability Resources provides students with individualized support services based on the nature of the documented disability. An accessible testing center proctors exams for students with approved testing accommodations. Disability Resources also provides one-on-one personalized training on general technology and on assistive technology hardware/software.
We would like to welcome first year students and their families/friends to MCLA's First Year Fridays with the Office of Disabiity Resources. Utilizing Microsoft Teams, the Disability Resources Office will engage with new students and their family members/friends on a variety of topics relevant to their experience as students with disabilities. Presenters wil cover frequently asked questions and student and family/friends will be able to ask their questions. Meetings will be held every Friday beginning July 7th through the month of August from 3:00pm-4:00pm. We hope you are able to join us.
Transition Information for Parents and Studens with IEP's
offered an early start to success for 16 first year students last fall. Start Strong introduced students to college campus life while diving deeper into some of the common transition challenges experienced by first year students, " It is like the short, safe version of the beginning of the first year." Students gained a more in-depth understanding of what to expect in college and what would be expected of them, completed a formal assessment of their study habits/skills and heard tips from student leaders on how to balance school with other demands.
Fall 2023 Start Strong Program
Get an early start on YOUR SUCCESS. Students will be expected to complete a series of self-paced modules built in Canvas throughout the first 8 weeks of the semester. A weekly in-person "roadside" checkpoint will bring all participants together for fun and activities. The Start Strong Program uses the metaphor of a road trip for getting through college’s tougher transition challenges. This metaphorical road trip gives students an entirely different way to see the college experience. So grab your backpack, jump aboard and roll down the window.
It’s Road Trip Time!
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Based on documentation, reasonable accommodations might include:
Assistive technology
On-campus housing
Please note that these represent some accommodations provided to MCLA students. Students' needs are reviewed on an individual basis and specific accommodations will reflect each individual student.
Success coaches provide one-on-one support to students throughout their first year at MCLA. Coaches work with students on transition competency areas to develop the structure and framework necessary to be successful in college. Coaches work in partnership with students to improve academic skills, to identify resources, and to address any obstacles to academic success. Success coaches are currently available via TEAMS or in-person. If you would like to opt into the coaching program please email dpoulton@mcla.edu or call us at (413)662-5314.
Don't forget to ask about taking the LASSI (Learning & Study Skill Assessment). Become more aware of your strengths and what areas you can work on to improve your academic and study skills.
The Disability Resource Office provides screenings on a variety of accessible general use technologies as well as assistive technologies and software applications. Screenings provide an opportunity for students and the Disability Resource staff to review and discuss various technologies and software that may be useful. Screenings are also a chance to discuss any current or past challenges with different technology. Introductory sessions on how to get started are available by request.
An Assistive Technology (AT) Lab, located in Mark Hopkins, Room 111, is a space for students registered with Disability Resources. The AT Lab offers a variety of assistive technology hardware and software tools designed to meet the needs of students with various disabilities.
Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities This publication from the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights is relevant to any postsecondary student going to any college or university. Be familiar with the information in this booklet as you begin to look at colleges and universities for your student.
Auxiliary Aids and Services for Postsecondary Students with Disabilities This booklet can give you more specific information about the types of assistance that are generally available to students with disabilities at the postsecondary level.
Family Guide to Transition Services in Massachusetts, https://fcsn.org/transition_guide/english.pdf Brought to you in partnership by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission and the Federation for Children with Special Needs.
Dear Prospective Student: The Office of Disability Resources understands that student's rights and responsibilities change considerably from high school to college. We want you to make a successful transition. We welcome prospective students with disabilities to schedule a meeting with us to discuss some very important transition items ! We also know that students with health conditions and physical disabilities are often assessing different aspects of campus life than their non-disabled peers when they go on a college tour. They might be considering:
If you are interested in scheduling an Early Transition meeting please contact Disability Resources at (413) 662-5314 or email Cindy.MacDonald@mcla.edu.
