UTILIZING QUEENSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE 504 ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES FOR ADHD

Accessibility services play a crucial role in supporting students with ADHD and other learning differences, ensuring they have the resources and accommodations needed for academic success. Queensborough Community College (QCC) ‘s Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) is dedicated to providing comprehensive student support. Visit QCC’s Office of Accessibility Services.

Understanding 504 Accessibility Services at Queensborough Community College

Queensborough Community College offers various accessibility services designed to support students with disabilities, including ADHD. The Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) provides academic accommodations, assistive technologies, and personalized support to help students succeed.

Services Offered:

• Academic accommodations include extended test time, note-taking assistance, and alternative textbook formats.
• Assistive technologies, including screen readers, speech-to-text software, and more.
• Support services such as individualized coaching, tutoring, and workshops.

These services benefit all students by creating an inclusive learning environment accommodating diverse needs. By leveraging these resources, students can enhance their learning experience and achieve their academic goals. Learn more about QCC’s Accessibility Services.

Steps to Get Accommodations for Students Without an ADHD Diagnosis

Step 1: Recognize Your Needs

Understanding and recognizing your academic challenges is the first step toward seeking accommodations. Common challenges for students with learning differences may include difficulty concentrating, time management, and reading or writing struggles.

Self-assessment Tips:

• Reflect on your academic performance and identify areas where you face difficulties.
• Consider any feedback from teachers or peers about your learning style.
• Take note of recurring issues, such as trouble following lectures or keeping up with assignments.

Step 2: Research and Gather Information

Gather information about the available accommodations at Queensborough Community College. Understanding the available support will help you articulate your needs and make informed decisions.

Where to Find Information:

• Visit the QCC Office of Accessibility Services webpage.
• Review the list of common accommodations and services offered.
• Look for student testimonials or case studies illustrating how others have benefited from these services.

Examples of Accommodations Available:

• Extended time for exams and assignments.
• Quiet rooms for testing.
• Access to assistive technology like speech-to-text software.

The Office of Accessibility Services offers support and services that promote independence and student development for our diverse student body. Students must register with the office to be eligible for accommodations, where accommodations are determined individually.

Step 3: Meet with an Advisor

Scheduling a meeting with an advisor from the Office of Accessibility Services is a critical step in the accommodation process.

How to Schedule a Meeting:

• Contact the Office of Accessibility Services via phone, email, or in-person visit. Contact details can be found here.
• Complete any required forms or pre-meeting assessments.

What to Expect in the Meeting:

• Discussion of your academic challenges and specific needs.
• Explanation of the accommodation process and available services.
• Development of a personalized accommodation plan tailored to your requirements.

By following these steps and utilizing the resources offered by Queensborough Community College’s Office of Accessibility Services, students with ADHD and other learning differences can enhance their academic experience and succeed.

Step 4: Provide Documentation

Documentation is often required to establish the need for accommodations. Types of documentation might include:

• A recent psychological evaluation or educational assessment.
• A letter from a healthcare provider detailing your diagnosis and recommended accommodations.
• Any previous records of accommodations from other educational institutions or standardized testing

ADD/ADHD Documentation Guidelines

• The ADD/ADHD documentation must be from a qualified professional, conducted within the past three years, and updated as needed. It should include a history, including onset, diagnosis, medication, and indications of ADD/ADHD throughout adolescence or adulthood., and provide a rationale for recommended accommodations.

Learning Disability Documentation Guidelines

• A trained evaluator must evaluate within the last three years of high school and should detail the functional impact of the diagnosis on learning, including recommendations for accommodations or assistive technology. It must include test scores to document the disability’s nature and severity. Adult students not previously diagnosed must provide documentation according to the guidelines.

If a student has not been previously diagnosed or lacks documentation of a disability, they should set up an appointment with OAS to discuss obtaining testing or securing supporting documentation. The office offers a supportive environment and is available to provide guidance and recommendations, though accommodations can only be granted with documentation.

Themba Tutors compiled a list of low-cost neuropsychological evaluation sites in NYC that offer affordable evaluation services.

Step 5: Follow Up and Advocate

Following up and advocating for yourself are essential components of utilizing accessibility services effectively.

Importance of Follow-Up Meetings:

Tips for Self-Advocacy and Effective Communication with Professors:

• Clearly communicate your needs and the accommodations you require to your professors.
• Be proactive in discussing any challenges you face in the classroom.
• Practice self-advocacy by speaking up about your needs and seeking support when necessary.

By following these steps and utilizing the resources offered by Queensborough Community College’s Office of Accessibility Services, students with ADHD and other learning differences can enhance their academic experience and succeed.

Maximizing Accessibility Services for Students with an ADHD Diagnosis

Step 1: Understand Your Rights and Available Services

Understanding your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws ensure that students with ADHD receive equal access to education through reasonable accommodations.

Overview of Rights Under ADA and Section 504:

• Ensures equal access to education.
• Provides reasonable accommodations to support learning needs.

Specific Services and Accommodations for ADHD:

• Extended time on tests and assignments.
• Note-taking assistance.
• Preferential seating.
• Use of technology aids (e.g., laptops, audio recorders).
• Breaks during class or exams.
• Modified deadlines.

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment with Accessibility Services

Scheduling an appointment with accessibility services is the next step. Preparing for this appointment is essential to ensure you can effectively communicate your needs.

How to Prepare for the Appointment:

• Research the services offered by your school’s accessibility office.
• Make a list of your specific needs and how they impact your academic performance.
• Prepare questions you have about available accommodations.

What Documentation to Bring:

• A recent evaluation or diagnosis from a qualified professional (e.g., psychologist, psychiatrist).
• If applicable, any previous Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 Plans.
• Documentation of previous accommodations and their effectiveness.

Step 3: Create a Personalized Accommodation Plan

Creating a personalized accommodation plan involves working with your accessibility services advisor to tailor a plan to your specific needs.

How to Develop a Plan Tailored to Individual Needs:

• Discuss your specific challenges and strengths with the accessibility services advisor.
• Identify which accommodations will best support your learning style and needs.
• Ensure the plan is comprehensive and addresses all aspects of your academic life.

Examples of Accommodations That Can Be Included:

• Use of fidget tools during classes.
• Scheduled check-ins with professors or tutors.
• Alternative formats for assignments and exams (e.g., oral presentations instead of written reports).
• Quiet spaces for studying and taking exams.

Step 4: Utilize Support Resources

Beyond accommodations, utilizing additional support resources on campus can significantly enhance your academic experience.

Other Support Resources Available on Campus:

• Tutoring Services: Access subject-specific tutoring or general academic support.
• Counseling Services: Seek mental health support to manage stress and anxiety.
• Study Groups: Join or form study groups for collaborative learning.
• Workshops and Seminars: Attend sessions on time management, study skills, and other relevant topics.

How to Integrate These Resources with Your Accommodation Plan:

• Coordinate with tutors and counselors to align their support with your accommodations.
• Use workshops to develop skills that complement your accommodations.
• Regularly update your accessibility services advisor on your progress and any additional support needs.

Step 5: Regularly Review and Adjust Your Plan

Regularly reviewing and adjusting your accommodation plan ensures that it remains effective and relevant to your needs.

Importance of Regular Check-Ins with Accessibility Services:

• Ensure that your accommodations are effective and address any new challenges.
• Make adjustments based on your feedback and changing needs.
• Stay informed about new services and resources that may benefit you.

How to Make Adjustments as Needed to Your Accommodation Plan:

• Document any difficulties you experience with current accommodations.
• Schedule follow-up meetings with accessibility services to discuss potential changes.
• Collaborate with your professors to implement adjustments promptly.

By understanding your rights, preparing adequately, and utilizing available resources, you can maximize the benefits of accessibility services to support your academic success. Regular review and adjustment of your accommodation plan will ensure that it continues to meet your evolving needs.

Tips for Academic Success

Navigating academic life can be challenging for students with ADHD and other learning differences. By incorporating effective strategies and resources, students can achieve their academic goals more easily and confidently.

Time Management Strategies

Effective time management is crucial. Break large tasks into smaller steps, use a planner or digital calendar to track assignments and deadlines, and set timers for study sessions and breaks to maintain focus and prevent burnout.

Study Skills and Note-Taking Techniques

Develop effective study skills by organizing information using mind maps, outlines, and color-coding. Summarize key points in your own words, implement active reading strategies, and use tools like the Cornell Note-Taking System to improve note organization and exam preparation.

Stress Management and Mental Health Resources

Manage stress by incorporating regular physical activity, mindfulness exercises, and adequate sleep. Access counseling services and support groups, and establish a routine that balances academic demands with relaxation and hobbies for better mental health.

Utilizing Technology and Tools for Learning

Leverage technology to enhance learning. Use executive functioning apps for organization and time management, digital note-taking apps, speech-to-text software, and online study aids to streamline academic tasks and make education more accessible.

By applying these tips, students can create a supportive and effective academic environment that caters to their unique needs, ultimately leading to greater success and fulfillment in their educational journey.

External Supports and Services

To maximize academic success, students with ADHD and other learning differences can benefit from various external supports and services.

Executive Function Coaching

Executive function coaching can be immensely beneficial for students struggling with time management, organization, and study habits. These coaches work with students to develop personalized strategies to enhance their executive functioning skills, which are critical for academic success. By addressing specific challenges, coaches help students build routines, set goals, and implement effective study techniques.

Themba Tutors offers specialized executive function coaching services that cater to the unique needs of students with ADHD and other learning differences. Their coaches provide tailored support to help students improve their organizational skills, manage their time effectively, and develop better study habits. The one-on-one coaching approach ensures that each student receives personalized attention and strategies that work best for them.

Psychiatric Services:

About Dr. Michael Roman

Dr. Michael Roman is an expert in diagnosing and treating ADHD and other mental health issues, particularly in students. With extensive experience in adolescent and adult psychiatry, Dr. Roman is dedicated to helping young individuals manage their academic and personal lives more effectively.

Dr. Roman’s comprehensive range of psychiatric services is not just extensive, but also highly personalized. Each student’s unique needs are carefully considered, from detailed assessments to precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, ensuring the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Dr. Roman provides both stimulant and non-stimulant treatment options on the same day to effectively manage ADHD symptoms. He collaborates closely with students to identify the most effective medication regimen, with continuous monitoring and adjustments as needed to achieve the best results.

Understanding that medication is only one aspect of comprehensive care, Dr. Roman also addresses related issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. He offers or refers patients to therapeutic services that complement medication management, ensuring a holistic approach to mental health.

Dr. Michael Roman is dedicated to delivering compassionate and expert care, helping students excel academically and personally. Contact his office today to begin your journey toward improved mental health.

When symptoms disrupt daily functioning and academic performance, seeking psychiatric support is not just important; it’s crucial. Mental health is essential for academic success and overall quality of life, and Dr. Roman is here to help.

Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG)

Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) is a diagnostic tool that measures electrical activity in the brain. It is often used to create brain maps to help identify patterns associated with ADHD and other learning differences. QEEG can provide valuable insights into how a student’s brain functions, which can then inform personalized interventions and treatment plans.

By leveraging these external supports and services, students with ADHD and other learning differences can gain the tools and insights needed to improve their academic performance and overall well-being.

Important Forms

• Application for Office of Accessibility Services
• Agreements, Survey & Consent Form
• Consent Form only
• CUNY LEADS Intake form
• Request for Tutoring
• Testing Accommodation Form
• The Differences Between High School and College for Students with Disabilities
• Alternate Format Book Request Form‘

To complete these forms, you need to have the following information:

• CUNYfirst username and password
• Proof of purchase
• Photos of the front and back cover of the book

Conclusion

Queensborough Community College (QCC) provides comprehensive support through its Office of Accessibility Services (OAS), offering academic accommodations, assistive technologies, and personalized support for students with ADHD and other learning differences.

Steps to seek accommodations include recognizing academic challenges, gathering information, meeting with an advisor, providing documentation, and following up regularly.

Students should leverage QCC’s resources and external support, such as executive function coaching and QEEG diagnostics, to enhance their academic success.

Contact QCC’s Office of Accessibility Services to discuss your needs and explore accommodations. Additionally, external resources like Themba Tutors should be considered for specialized coaching.