Frequently Asked Questions

DSS Students are welcome to drop by the DSS office at ICE 116 anytime. However, if you want to be sure your AC (Accessibility Coordinator) has time to meet with you, it is best to schedule a meeting. Please call 417-447-8189 or email disabilityservices@otc.edu to make an appointment.

To get your accommodation letter:

• You must be a current DSS student and have enrolled in the current semester.
• In order to utilize accommodations, you must present your Accommodation Letter to instructors.
• If you need to update your accommodations, please make an appointment to see your Accessibility Coordinator.

Accommodation letters are sent automatically to each DSS student’s OTC email every semester.

SPRING 25 letters went out on JANUARY 7, 2025. Please check your email first to be sure you did not already receive your letter before you place a request with DSS.

It is the student’s choice to disclose their disability or enrollment with Disability Support Services to their instructors. Presenting your Accommodation Letter is necessary to utilize accommodations in the classroom and for out-of-class testing. It is recommended students confidentially discuss their Accommodation Letter with their instructors so an open line of communication can be established.

You may choose to discuss your disability with your instructors and other staff. Qualifying conditions, physical or mental, medical diagnosis, symptoms, past accommodations, medical prognosis, and all other medical information not needed for implementation of agreed upon academic accommodations will not be shared or disclosed without prior informed and written consent unless there is potentially danger to the student or other occupants of OTC’s facilities. When possible, the student will be notified of this disclosure and OTC staff who have been granted access to the student’s disability-related information.

Beginning college can be both exciting and overwhelming. Learning more about the differences between high school and college as it relates to students with a disability is a great way to ease any anxiety or confusion.

You will find more information on our page Differences Between HS & College.

The Missouri Association of Higher Education and Disability (MO AHEAD) has created a resource, the “Missouri AHEAD College Guidebook,” for individuals pursuing postsecondary education.

Please note: OTC’s Disability Support Services processes may differ somewhat from those in this guidebook.

OTC’s Facilities and Grounds Department works diligently to ensure sidewalks and common areas are accessible, particularly during inclement weather. However, should a student encounter a barrier or experience any difficulties navigating the campus, please contact Disability Support Services by phone at 417-447-8189 or through email at Disability Services.

OTC students are responsible for their own transportation to, from, and on campus. Information about bus schedules, fares, etc. can be found at cutransit. Eligible students may also arrange transportation to and from campus through Access Express. Information about eligibility, fares, operating hours, etc. can be found at cutransit access. Also please check out out Community Resources Page for more info.

If you experience difficulty navigating the campus, please contact us.

In Canvas, click “NEED HELP”, the question mark on the left side menu, and select the DSS Exam Request.

Online exams require the instructor to extend the time allowed. Please complete the Exam Request and the Sign-up Genius portion in order to test at the Accommodated Testing Center in ICE116.

You will report to the Accommodated Testing Center in ICE116 on the day of your exam. Please have your picture ID with you and check in at the front desk early enough to get settled and start testing at the scheduled time.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

• No food will be allowed.
• Drinks with a lid allowed.
• Use the restroom prior to checking in at the Front Desk.
• Remove hats or turn them around.
• Be prepared to begin your exam upon entering the ATC.
• Make sure your cell phone is silent.
• Put phone, keys, smartwatch, and other small personal belongings in basket.
• Remove items required for your exam (pen/pencil, calculator, and approved resources) from your backpack.
• Avoid disturbing other students.
• Place your plastic bin or backpack on the designated shelf.
• Respect your proctor and listen carefully to instructions.
• Disruptive students will be asked to leave and are responsible for any consequences.

EXPECTATIONS FOR ALL TESTERS:

• Students must send their Accommodation Letter to their instructor prior to making exam request.
• Students must schedule an exam through Sign-up Genius and complete the DSS Exam Request Form. Without both steps completed, we do not have an exam for you to take.
• Students may not test until DSS has received acknowledgement from the instructor.
• Students may wait 30 minutes for an instructor response when sending a request on the day of the exam. After that point, the student must reschedule the exam.
• DSS will contact the instructor to ensure we have not missed an exam being sent to us. Students are responsible for negotiating requests to receive an extension or reschedule the exam.
• Students are expected to begin their exam at their scheduled time. Excessive tardiness will result in allotted time being based on the scheduled appointment, not when the student arrives and begins the exam. Director will notify student via email.

If you have missed or need to reschedule your exam, FIRST contact your instructor. They will need to approve a reschedule date/time. Then fill out an Updated Exam Request form.  On Sign-up Genius choose a new date/time to secure your seat.