Disability Services
Disability Services is dedicated to ensuring students with disabilities have equal access to the educational opportunities, resources, and experiences available at Ashland Community & Technical College.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Disability Services is to provide all students with equal access to educational opportunities and programs within the college, regardless of disability. Our philosophy is one of respect for the individual needs and goals of each student. We advocate for students by providing services and resources that are both supportive and empowering, working collaboratively within our campuses and the communities the college serves.
What does Disability Services do?
Colleges are required by federal statutes to provide equal access to their facilities, educational programs, campus activities, and employment opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities. Disability Services (DS) exists to help ensure access for students by providing various services, often referred to as "academic accommodations."
How to request services
Information about accommodations you received in high school or at another college or university is not included in your academic transcripts from those schools. To receive accommodations at ACTC, you must register with Disability Services separately from the admissions process. Accommodations can only be provided after you have completed the registration process and been approved through Disability Services.
Students should not request accommodations directly from instructors. Accommodations are coordinated through Disability Services to ensure consistency and compliance with applicable laws and college policies. Students who choose not to self-identify and register with Disability Services are not eligible to receive accommodations, and accommodations cannot be applied retroactively once a student registers.
Registering is simply the following three steps:
- Complete the Disability Services Request for Services
- Submit appropriate documentation from a qualified professional that verifies your disability and supports your accommodation needs.
- Meet with Disability Services staff for an informal intake appointment. During this
meeting, we will:
- Learn more about your individual needs and experiences.
- Review your documentation.
- Discuss and determine appropriate accommodations.
- Explain the accommodation process and how instructors are notified.
To avoid delays in receiving accommodations, students are encouraged to register with Disability Services as early as possible.
After completing registration, students do not need to repeat the intake process each semester or provide new documentation unless their circumstances and/or accommodation needs change.
However, it is necessary for students to complete a brief Instructor Notification Request form at the beginning of each term they are enrolled to indicate if they wish to continue receiving accommodations, request any possible changes/additions, and provide authorization for Disability Services to share their accommodation information with their instructors.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Heather Shelton, Director
606-326-2051
Heather.Shelton@KCTCS.edu
C. Lance Frazier, Assistant
606-326-2239
Charles.Frazier@KCTCS.edu
OFFICE LOCATIONS
College Drive Campus: Room 220, Main Building
Technology Drive Campus: Admissions Area, Room 157E
*Staff are not available at both campuses daily and schedule fluctuates. Appointments are recommended when possible.
