The University attempts to level the playing field for students whose disabilities have been verified and who request accommodations. Ultimately, the students' work must be their own and be of a satisfactory quality. In addition to guaranteeing civil rights to program access, the ADA also guarantees any individual with a disability the absolute right to refuse any accommodation. DSS is not responsible for making sure a student requests accommodations. However, DSS will ensure that requested and approved accommodations are addressed.
Coordinators rely heavily on documentation of the disability when determining accommodations.
Also, they draw the student into a discussion of limitations and possible strategies. Accommodations not requested by students will not be provided. The bottom line is that students with disabilities must perform at satisfactory levels in their academic pursuits at UM-Missoula. If they do not request reasonable accommodations and perform poorly without them, their civil rights have not been violated. The student must then deal with the consequences of unsatisfactory academic progress.