USAO is committed to providing a fair, transparent, and legally compliant process for resolving concerns related to disability accommodations. We recognize that questions or disagreements may sometimes arise regarding academic or housing accommodations, and we are dedicated to addressing these matters thoughtfully and thoroughly.
The information below outlines the procedures available to both students and faculty when they wish to appeal a decision or raise concerns about the implementation of accommodations. These processes are designed to ensure all parties are heard, and that accommodation decisions reflect the university's legal responsibilities while preserving the integrity of its academic and residential programs.
Please review the appropriate section below for detailed instructions and next steps.
Student Grievance Procedure (appeals Process)
Students who disagree with an academic or housing accommodation decision made by the Office for Accessible Education (OAE) or the decision made by USAO Housing in consultation with the OAE to remove their animal from university property have the right to appeal through the process below. Students are encouraged to provide as much detailed information and evidence as possible throughout the entirety of this appeals process.
Step 1: Initial Appeal TO The USAO Accommodations Team
- Submission of the Appeal
Students must complete an Accessibility Grievance Form detailing the basis of their appeal. The completed form, along with any supporting documentation, must be emailed to the OAE at accessibilityservices@usao.edu.
- Review Process
The USAO Accommodations Team will review the grievance, which may include conducting an investigation, requesting additional documentation or information, and/or holding interviews with relevant parties.
- Decision Notification
A formal response letter detailing the decision will be sent to the students’ USAO email address.
Step 2: Secondary Appeal To The Dean of Students
- Filing a Secondary Appeal
If the student is dissatisfied with the USAO Accommodations Team’s decision, they may submit a new Accessibility Grievance Form to the Dean of Students. The appeal should include any updated or additional evidence relevant to the grievance.
- Review by the Dean of Students
The Dean of Students may conduct a comprehensive review, which can involve:
- An independent investigation.
- Requesting further documentation or clarification.
- Interviewing individuals involved in the case.
- Final Decision Notification
A formal response letter will be sent to the students’ USAO email with the final
determination. The decision made by the Dean of Students will represent the university's final resolution of the grievance.
Both the USAO Accommodations Team and the Dean of Students prioritize fairness, thorough review, and adherence to legal standards in their decision-making processes. The decisions made at each step will be documented and communicated to the student in writing. This process ensures that students have access to a fair and transparent mechanism for resolving disputes related to accommodation while maintaining the integrity and compliance of university policies.
Professor Appeal Process For Approved Accommodations
Professors concerned about the reasonableness of an approved accommodation may refer to the appeals process below. This process ensures that accommodations are evaluated within the context of each course, safeguarding the rights of students while maintaining academic integrity and standards.
- Contact the Office for Accessible Education (OAE)
Faculty members who believe an accommodation may not be reasonable or appropriate for their course must first contact the OAE before discussing the matter with the student. This ensures the process is managed in compliance with legal standards and protects the interests of all parties involved.
- OAE Review of Course and Syllabus
Upon being contacted, the OAE will review the course syllabus and requirements to determine whether the accommodation fundamentally alters academic standards or essential course components. The review considers the course’s specific learning objectives and any related licensing or certification requirements.
- Collaborative Discussion
The OAE will work with the professor to clarify the accommodation's impact and explore potential adjustments that preserve the student’s right to access and the academic integrity of the course. Alternative solutions may also be proposed.
- Formal Determination
If the OAE concludes that the accommodation does not fundamentally alter the course, the professor must implement it as outlined in the academic accommodation letter. If the OAE determines that the accommodation conflicts with essential course requirements, alternative accommodations may be proposed.
- Final Appeal Process
If no resolution is reached between the professor and the OAE, the faculty member may file a formal appeal with the Dean of Students. The Dean will review the case, considering legal obligations and academic standards, and will issue a final determination.
Accommodation Services
Academic Accomodations
(For the classroom)
Housing Accomodations
(For university housing)
ESA Policy
(For ESAs and service animals)
Registration and Appointments
How to Register
Schedule an Appointment
Policies, Resources, and Appeals
Forms and Policies
Additional Resources
(For students, parents, faculty, and staff)
Grievance/Appeals Process
(For students, faculty, and staff)