What Should I Do When Students Say They Have a Disability?
The number of students with disabilities at our college campuses has grown in recent years.
As a result, the range of potential issues and requests that faculty may encounter from these students is more diverse—and challenging—than ever before.
In responding to the wide-ranging needs of these students, it’s critical that faculty have a solid grasp of the essential requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
In this Magna 20 Minute Mentor, W. Scott Lewis, J.D., past-president of the Association for Student Conduct Administration (ASCA), walks you through the fundamental requirements to ensure you are working with students properly under ADA and Section 504.
You will learn:
- Key ADA and Section 504 requirements and definitions related to students with disabilities.
- Four key questions to ask in encountering an issue involving a student with a disability.
- How to work effectively with your institution’s Disabled Support Services Office staff.
This professional development program also includes supplemental materials:
- Sample syllabus statements
- Checklist of campus resources
- Links for more information
- A script that shows you how to have a conversation with a student about accommodations.
Learning outcomes
At the conclusion of this program, you will understand:
- The essential requirements for working with disabled students under the ADA and Section 504.
- Appropriate vs. inappropriate responses to students seeking assistance.
- The different types of documentation used by students seeking assistance.
Make this program available for ongoing training
Order the Campus Access License and load the CD onto your institution’s internal web site for unlimited, convenient, on-demand access for all members of your campus community. Click here for more information and to see all the benefits of the Campus Access License.

Meet Your Mentor:
![]() | W. Scott Lewis, J.D. |
Bonus Material:
- Supplemental Materials
- PowerPoint presentation
- PDF transcript



