Documentation requirements

In order to fully evaluate a student's eligibility for services and requests for accommodations and/or auxiliary aids, the Disability Resource Center requires documentation of a disability. Documentation must validate the presence of a disability, as covered under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, and is necessary to support accommodation requests and provision of auxiliary aids and services.

The guidelines listed will assist in working with the treating/diagnosing professional(s) to prepare the information needed to evaluate a student's request. If, after reading these guidelines, there are any questions, call the DRC at (203) 392-6828, 392-6131 (TTY).

General Documentation Requirements

1. A diagnostic statement identifying the disability: The diagnosis should include a description of diagnostic methods and criteria utilized along with the date of evaluation. If the most recent evaluation was not a full evaluation, indicate when the last full evaluation was completed.
2. Current functional impact of the condition: Describe the current relevant functional impact of the disability in an educational setting.
3. The expected progression of the disability over time: When appropriate, provide a description of the expected change in the functional impact of the condition over time. If the condition is variable, describe the known factors that may exacerbate the condition.
4.Treatment: List treatments, medications, accommodations/auxiliary aids and/or services currently in use and their estimated effectiveness in addressing the impact of the condition. Include any significant side effects that may affect physical, perceptual, behavioral or cognitive performance. List any additional recommendations along with a clear rationale of why they may be of benefit to the student. All recommendations will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
5. Transfer Students: We encourage you to provide written verification from the previously attended school that includes the dates attended and the accommodations used.

Click Here for Additional Documentation Requirements for Students with Learning Disabilities