STUDENT HANDBOOK
WELCOME!
On behalf of the Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS) faculty and staff, we would like to welcome you to Santa Monica College. We are here to help you succeed in your academic career. College is a time to broaden your horizons, learn about yourself and the world, explore your options, and develop the ability to make sound decisions. This process will give you the tools to create a bright and productive future.
We hope that you will take advantage of the comprehensive support services that we offer in the Disabled Student Program. We are looking forward to meeting you and wish you the best of luck. Enjoy your stay at Santa Monica College!
Mission Statement
The Disabled Student Program’s objective is to integrate students into all college programs and activities so that students can function independently.
What is Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSP&S)?
Disabled Student Programs & Services (DSP&S) at Santa Monica College began in 1975. We are here to ensure that all college programs on our campus are accessible to students with disabilities. Academic adjustments, educational instruction, and an array of support services are provided to ensure accessibility. We strive to provide the highest quality programs to encourage and promote independence in students so that they may achieve their full potential. Your first step in receiving the academic adjustments you need is to make an appointment to see a DSP&S counselor.
Who is eligible to receive services in the Disabled Student Program?
Any SMC student who has documentation provided by a licensed professional verifying their disability is eligible for services. For example, if you have been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD, you must provide documentation from a medical doctor.
According to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1991, a person with a disability is described as:
 Having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities
Having a record of such impairment, or
Being regarded as having such an impairment.
Types of disabilities that may be covered by the ADA include, but are not limited to the following :
Physical, sight, speech or hearing impairments
Acquired brain injury
Epilepsy
Muscular dystrophy
Multiple sclerosis
Cancer
Heart diseases
Diabetes
Chronic illnesses
HIV or AIDS,
Psychiatric disabilities
Specific learning disabilities
ADHD/ADD
Developmental disabilities, and
Recovered drug or alcohol addiction |
| Source: University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning Division of Adult Studies, N. Kurth, G. Berry & Daryl Mellard. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs |
What is verification?
Verification means that you have written proof that you currently have a disability. It is your responsibility to provide verification of your disability with current functional limitations to receive academic adjustments. Services and academic adjustments are offered after the formal verification of a current disability.
What services are provided for students with disabilities?
Academic counseling
Academic adjustments for functional limitations of your disability
Priority registration in Fall and Spring semesters
Learning Disabilities Program
High Tech Training Center/Assistive Technology
Acquired Brain Injury Program
Hard-of-Hearing and Deaf Services
Personal counseling
Interact with all faculty and classified personnel as appropriate on your
behalf
Liaison with off-campus agencies
On and off campus referrals
Differences Between Services Provided by K-12 Education and College
New Students - First Steps
Continuing Students - Helpful Hints
Signing up for Classes - Instructions
THIS HANDBOOK IS STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
Stay tuned for more!
