The determination of what is a fundamental alteration, however, is one which requires specific steps and a reasoned, determinative process on the part of the campus community. Remember, the ADA is a remedial statute which requires that colleges and universities question their notions of what is truly fundamental and provide for alternate methods of achieving the results intended by the educational program. As a faculty member, you are an integral part of your institution s efforts to comply with these laws. Just as you are not free to discriminate against students on the basis of race, religion, gender or ethnicity, so too, you cannot discriminate against students with disabilities. Part of not discriminating against students with disabilities is the provision of reasonable accommodations or academic adjustments and auxiliary aids and services .
Institutional compliance is a shared responsibility of which faculty are a necessary part.
Your employment in that capacity requires that you assist the institution in fulfilling its compliance responsibilities in connection with the ADA as well as other civil rights statutes. Hold up your end with regard to accommodations which have been determined to be appropriate. This may include asking class members to volunteer to take notes or providing copies of exams to the disability services office in order for a student to take the examination under alternate circumstances, such as extended time, using a scribe or braille, etc. Treat students with disabilities with the same courtesies you would afford to other students. Respect the privacy of students with disabilities.