Accommodation Appeals Process and Guidelines

ADA/Section 504 Accommodation Appeals Process and Guidelines

Barry University is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment. Students registered with the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) who disagree with an accommodation decision have the right to request a review.

Step 1: Request for Reconsideration (OAS)

If you disagree with an accommodation decision made by Accessibility Services, you are encouraged to begin with a reconsideration request. This informal step gives you a chance to share new or clarifying information that may not have been available before.

How to Request a Reconsideration

• Submit a written request within 10 business days of the decision.
• Include your name, Barry ID number, and the accommodation(s) being reviewed.
• Explain why you believe a different accommodation is needed and include any new documentation.

The Director of OAS will review the information, may ask for clarification, and will respond in writing within 7 business days. If more time is needed, you'll receive written notice and an updated timeline.

Step 2: Formal Appeal to the Dean of Students

If you're not satisfied with the outcome of the reconsideration, you may file a formal appeal to the University's ADA/504 Appellate Officer:

Matthew Cameron, Associate Vice President & Dean of Students
deanofstudents@barry.edu
Landon Hall Suite #303

Submit your appeal within 15 business days of receiving the reconsideration decision. Appeals filed after this period may be dismissed unless a delay is justified by good cause (for example, illness or difficulty obtaining documentation).

Grounds for Appeal

You may appeal on the following grounds:

1. A procedural error that affected the outcome.
2. New information not reasonably available during the initial review.
3. A misapplication of ADA/Section 504 standards or University policy.

What Happens Next

• You'll receive a written acknowledgment confirming your appeal has been received.
• The Dean of Students (or designee if there's a conflict of interest) will review the complete record.
• The Dean may remand the case to OAS if new documentation warrants a new review.
• Consultation with the University's legal counsel, or qualified professionals may occur as needed.
• A final written decision will be issued within 15 business days of receiving all required materials.

You'll be notified if additional time is needed.

The Dean's decision represents Barry University's final internal determination regarding accommodation requests. This decision concludes Barry's internal review process. Students who remain dissatisfied may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) or pursue other legal remedies available to them.

Interim Accommodations

While an appeal is pending, the University will make every effort to maintain current accommodations or provide temporary accommodations as needed so that you are not placed at an academic disadvantage.

Implementation Concerns

If you believe that an approved accommodation is not being implemented,

1. Notify the Office of Accessibility Services immediately.
2. If it isn't resolved quickly, contact the Dean of Students for follow-up and corrective action.

Confidentiality & Anti-Retaliation

All documentation and proceedings are kept confidential to the extent allowed by law. Retaliation for requesting accommodations, seeking reconsideration, or filing an appeal is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

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