Coordinator of Disability Support Srevices
General Description
Responsible for assisting students with disabilities to have equal access to all Union College classes and programs including acting as a liaison between students and instructors, support staff, and/or other campus resources and services. This position assists students and potential students in all aspects of the college process from pre-application to graduation. Facilitates the collection of documentation, documentation review, and accommodation approval. Assists with coordinating sign language interpreters, training students to use assistive technology, providing workshops, and promoting inclusion on campus.
Characteristics, Duties, and Responsibilities
Student centered approach that values diversity and promotes inclusion and equity.
Knowledge of disability laws and regulations, including the
ADA
as amended and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Knowledge of appropriate documentation and the interactive process for setting accommodations.
Knowledge of learning theory and of current research related to learning disabilities and to educational adaptations for students with disabilities at the college level.
Evaluates, verifies, and interprets documentation from various professionals to determine eligibility and appropriate/reasonable disability related accommodations at the college level.
Provides academic advising and support services to promote student development and clarification of academic, career and personal goals.
Advocates for the needs of students with disabilities.
Assists with developing and facilitating effective and relevant services for students with disabilities.
Assists with supervision and scheduling of American Sign Language interpreters,
CART
service providers, student workers, and others as needed.
Serves as resource person for students, faculty, and staff on matters regarding the provision of academic accommodations for students with disabilities.
Responds to inquiries via in-person, phone, text, and email.
Develops, implements, and facilitates workshops and materials.
Maintains appropriate records.
Prepares reports as required.
Works collaboratively with community agencies including The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, testing and assessment personnel and centers, high school personnel, other agencies, and individuals.
Performs other responsibilities assigned by supervisor or designee.
Education Requirements
Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Special Education or closely related area required.
Rehabilitation Counseling Certification (
CRC
) or Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant Certification (
LDTC
) preferred.
Experience
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in providing direct services to persons with disabilities or experience in college counseling and academic advising/counseling.
Competencies and Skills Required
Thorough knowledge of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Excellent interpersonal skills
Familiarity with college and community individuals, agencies, and referral services for students with disabilities
Skilled in counseling/advising, workshops and program development/facilitation
Ability to advise/counsel students individually
Ability to establish and maintain positive and cooperative working relationships with faculty, staff, and student body
Ability to coordinate activities with other College offices or organizations that impact on or relate to performance of responsibilities
Ability to deal with broad range of student population at different developmental life stages.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse and changing student body and with professional staff.
Proficiency in report writing.
· Proficiency with MS office products.
Bilingual in Spanish and/or American Sign Language
Physical Demands and Work Environment
This position’s duties are normally performed in a typical interior/residence work environment, based on the activity scheduled.
Some physical effort required; however, the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
Some travel required.