According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 11.3 percent of undergraduates have a disability.
Statistically, that makes it probable that faculty and staff are interacting with students with disabilities every day. Many of these students have disabilities that are not readily apparent, as referenced by the DO-IT Center at the University of Washington. This can contribute to questions or concerns about the most effective ways to engage and retain students with disabilities.
Faculty and staff who are seeking assistance with ways to engage, retain, accommodate or reduce barriers for students with disabilities can consult with the Center for Access-Ability Resources.
Commonly referred to as CAAR, the Center for Access-Ability Resources originally was created to ensure access and legal compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
In 2008, the Americans with Disabilities Act was amended. When implemented in 2009, the amended act brought national attention back to the spirit of the original law. In light of this renewed commitment to inclusion, the Center for Access-Ability Resources is reviewing the mission, vision and program objectives of the office.
Through feedback provided by faculty and staff, future outreach and development opportunities will be designed that address the needs and interests of faculty and staff as they relate to persons with disabilities. Student feedback is being collected through another project.
Faculty and staff wishing to contribute to the review process are encouraged to complete a brief survey. Faculty and staff who have additional comments or questions can contact CAAR Director Melanie Thompson at mthompson3@niu.edu or (815) 753-1303.
