Heidi McDonald

I learned that ADA students do not have a right to confidentiality under the 504 ADA.  The statutes only grant a legal right to protection from discrimination on the basis of disability.

The accommodations by a disabled person have to align with their disability.  For example, a person in a wheelchair wants to take their written exam on a computer would be outside the scope.

I learned the importance of what we say such as hard of hearing instead of hearing impaired is important when around someone who is disabled.  I will be more aware of the language I use when referring to someone who is disabled.

I learned that a ruling was made that students may not be “anonymous,” even in a distance education setting. Therefore, while certain information is protected, participation in an academic activity can still be required for all students.

I learned students have the right to inspect and request corrections to their records.  I need to be cautious when speaking with parents or others who may not have the legal right to student information without consent

I learned that even informal conversations or digital records must be handled with care to avoid unintentional FERPA violations.  I can apply this knowledge by ensuring I always handle student information responsibly, whether in emails, conversations, or data systems.

A sexual violence victim may act in ways that are counterintuitive to helping their situation out due to their trauma.

Reporting and investigations must be completed immediately and with correct documentation.

I learned that a school employee is still required to report a sexual violence incident, even if they heard about the incident indirectly. 

Students in the higher education community, who have a disability, still can be held accountable for their behavior.  An emotional support animal is not considered a service animal.