Accessibility Services
Accessibility Services
The power to be successful as a student comes in being responsible for one’s actions,
learning, successes and failures. For students with disabilities it also includes
knowing their own unique ways of processing information and having a set of personal
tools that can be used to adapt, learn, and create strategies effectively. Learning
to develop problem-solving skills that can be transferred from course to course while
extremely valuable can sometimes be a challenge to students with disabilities.
The mission of the Office of Accessibility Services team is to provide an accessible and inclusive educational environment for students with documented disabilities; promote independence and self-advocacy as a means to reaching one’s full potential; and, ensure compliance with all state and federal ADA laws and guidelines.
If you don’t see what you are looking for, we are here to assist you. Contact us at 386-754-4393 or accessibility.services@fgc.edu .
Documentation Guidelines
STEP 1
In order for the Office of Accessibility Services to accommodate students at Florida Gateway College, students MUST register with the Office of Accessibility Services. A Request of Services form must be completed by the student AND appropriate documentation must be submitted by a doctor and/or a licensed professional to verify the presence and impact of their disability.
Appropriate clinical documentation must substantiate the disability and present evidence to establish a rationale supporting the need for accommodations. A school plan such as an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan is insufficient documentation in and of itself but can be included as part of a more comprehensive evaluative report. If the requested accommodations are not clearly identified in the diagnostic report, the Office of Accessibility Services will seek clarification and, if necessary, more information. The Office of Accessibility Services will make final determination of whether appropriate and reasonable accommodations are warranted and can be provided to the individual.
For conditions that are subject to change over time (including health related disorders or psychological disabilities) the student may be asked to provide updated documentation for his/her file on an on-going basis in order for accommodations to be continued.
Students are required to obtain a new accommodation letter each semester to provide to their instructors. Students are required to renew their accommodations after each semester with the Office of Accessibility Services.
U.S. Department of Education: Office of Civil Rights
STEP 2
The Office of Accessibility Services will review the report and/or diagnostic evaluation: after which, we will schedule an appointment to meet with the student and discuss the request and appropriate accommodations (if necessary) in a timely manner.
Step 3
In order to provide reasonable, effective and appropriate academic accommodations to students at Florida Gateway College who have disabilities, the Office of Accessibility Services requires students to provide recent (within the last two years), relevant and comprehensive medical documentation of the disability and the disability’s impact on the student’s participation in a course, program, or activity.
“A reasonable accommodation is a modification or adjustment to a course, program, service, or activity that enables a qualified student with a disability to obtain equal access. Equal access means an opportunity to attain the same level of performance or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges as are available to a similarly situated student without a disability. Only the peripheral requirements of courses, programs, and activities are subject to modification; essential elements of courses, programs, and activities must remain intact.”
~ Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act & the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The student will also have the opportunity to discuss the impact of the disability on his or her academic performance, as well as discuss what accommodation have or have not been effective in the past.
Information regarding a student’s disability provided to the Office of Accessibility Services is considered confidential and cannot be released to individuals or agencies outside the college without a student’s signed consent. Disability records are covered under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Under FERPA, information regarding a student’s disability can be legally subpoenaed. It can also be released to Florida Gateway College administration if there is a threat to self or others or if there is a legitimate educational need to know.
Disability documentation is maintained by the Office of Accessibility Services in locked files and secure electronic storage, separate from the student’s other academic records.
All documentation/information is confidential and should be submitted by mail or fax to:
Office of Accessibility Services
Florida Gateway College
149 SE College Place
Lake City, FL 32025
PHONE: (386) 754-4393
FAX: (386) 754-4893
• Office of Accessibility Services Student Handbook
• Application for Accessibility Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What are accommodations?
Accommodations are supports or adaptations that remove obstacles to learning and campus involvement for students with disabilities. They guarantee equal access to courses, programs, services, and activities.
Who is eligible for accommodations?
Students with documented disabilities, such as physical, learning, mental health, sensory, and chronic health conditions, may qualify.
How do I apply for accommodations?
You will need to fill out an Application for Accessibility Services and submit documentation from a licensed professional. After submitting it to the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS), you will meet with a staff member to discuss your needs.
What kind of documentation do I need?
The Application for Accessibility Services includes the forms that need to be completed by your medical provider. Documentation should come from a qualified professional and specify your diagnosis, functional limitations, and recommended treatments accommodations.
What if I don’t have documentation?
You should still reach out to Accessibility/Disability Services. Staff can assist you with obtaining the necessary documentation and may provide temporary supports while you collect the materials.
When should I request accommodations?
As soon as possible—preferably before the semester starts. However, you can request accommodations at any time during your enrollment.
Are accommodations retroactive?
No. Accommodations start once they are approved and communicated to your instructors. They do not apply to past coursework or exams.
Will my professors know about my disability?
No. Professors only get an official notification of your approved accommodations. Specific medical or diagnostic details stay confidential.
Do I have to reapply every semester?
No, once you're approved for accommodations, they stay in effect for your time at the college. However, you will need to request updated letters each semester and meet with staff if your needs change.
What types of accommodations are available?
Accommodations differ for each student and may include extended testing time, accessible materials, reduced-distraction testing environments, housing adjustments, or assistive technology.
Does the college pay for things like medical evaluations or personal devices?
The college offers reasonable academic accommodations but is not responsible for diagnostic testing, personal aides, or personal devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or eyeglasses.
Will requesting accommodations affect my grades or financial aid?
No. Accommodations are meant to provide equal access, not give an unfair advantage. They do not show up on your academic record and do not affect financial aid.
What should I do if I have trouble using my accommodations?
Contact the Office of Accessibility Services immediately. Staff can collaborate with you and your professors to resolve issues and modify accommodations if needed.
Can I get temporary accommodations if I’m injured or have a short-term condition?
Yes. Students with temporary conditions (such as a broken arm, surgery recovery, or concussion) might qualify for short-term accommodations.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
You can contact the Office of Accessibility Services by:
Email: Accessibility.services@fgc.edu
Phone: 386-754-4393
In person: Building 7, room 107
Staff are here to support you.