Transitioning to College
The transition to college is a period of change that can be exciting. It is important to note that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, Amended 2008) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which are relevant to postsecondary education, differ significantly from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that pertains to grades K-12. Students may need to adjust their perspectives when moving from high school to college. The Disability Support Services (DSS) team is available to offer guidance and support to students as they navigate these changes and learn to advocate for themselves.
High School (IDEA/504)
- Emphasis is placed on developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan tailored to facilitate the student's participation in the general curriculum.
- Annual meetings involving general education teachers, special education teachers, and support staff are conducted to track progress and establish objectives.
- This process can entail substantial adjustments to the curriculum and assessments.
- Classroom teachers are provided with a copy of the IEP or 504 by the school district, and should have a comprehensive understanding of the student's disability and educational plan.
- The Principle of Entitlement underlies the process, with the ultimate goal being student success.
College (Section 504/ADA)
- Students are expected to engage in the college's standard curriculum.
- It is the student's responsibility to self-disclose any disabilities and communicate their needs effectively.
- Students are required to schedule meetings with disability services to address their needs and raise any concerns.
- Instructors are not obligated to completely modify the course content or objectives but may need to make adjustments that do not compromise essential course goals.
- Each semester in college, the student submits a request for instructors to be provided with the student's accommodations. These letters of accommodation are sent without any additional details regarding disabilities or diagnoses unless disclosed directly to the instructor by the student.
- Compliance with Civil Rights Law is essential to ensure equal access for all individuals.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
College is a period during which students transition to independence and gain full responsibility for their education records. As a result, only the student (regardless of age) will have access to their academic information, including grades, courses, and financial aid details. Individuals other than the student, including parents/guardians/spouses/etc. will not be granted access to student records unless a FERPA release is completed by the student. For more information, visit the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Additional HCC Students Resources:
Services & Support:
- Learning Assistance and Tutoring
- Counseling
- Career Services
- Library
- And More
Step Up Program
New Student Orientation
Access the Online Orientation that offers a variety of resources:
- Student Success Workshops- Over 75 different topics such as:
- Exam Preparation Tips & Test-Taking Strategies
- Exploring Careers & Choosing a Major
- How to Overcome Math Anxiety
- Important Deadlines: class withdrawal, refunds, etc.
- Student Accounts: billing, payments, etc.
- Financial aid
- Self-service
- Canvas
- And More