The “How” and “Why” of Disability Accommodations in Higher Education

Description

If you have ever received an accommodation letter from the Disability Resources Office and wondered, “How am I going to implement these accommodations,” this presentation is for you. Presenters will share strategies to address accommodation implementation (the How) and rationale for implementing such accommodations (the Why). Time will be provided for questions and discussion. Register for this session

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About the Presenters

Dr. Marcia Montague

Dr. Marcia Montague is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at Texas A&M University. Her research focuses on equity in access for marginalized populations, with a particular focus on individuals with disabilities and their families. Her work centers on access to effective education, transition to postsecondary life, and supports in times of disaster. She has received over $8.6 million in external funding from the U.S. Department of Education and the Texas Council on Developmental Disabilities. Higher education teaching responsibilities have included numerous courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels for approximately 15 years. Often taught courses include Family Engagement and Empowerment as well as Consultation in Special Education. Dr. Montague has nine years of special education experience in public schools where she taught in numerous settings along the least restrictive environment. Additionally, she is a certified Quality Matters Master Reviewer and a Certified Family Life Educator.

Jennifer Morgan

Jennifer M. Morgan is a 3rd year Special Education doctoral student in the Department of Educational Psychology. Her research focus is early identification and interventions for dyslexia and teacher preparation. She has been the teacher assistant for the Family Engagement and Empowerment course for five semesters. Additionally, she is a graduate assistant for the Heart of Texas GEAR UP program working with high school students receiving services in special education. Jennifer is currently the Disability Sub-Commissioner for the Diversity Commission for Texas A&M Student Government Association. Jennifer has eight years of education experience in public schools where she taught in Content Mastery, 6-8 grade Social Studies, special education, and was a special education instructional coach for grades sixth through eighth.

Dr. Kristie Orr

Kristie Orr, Ph.D.is the Director of Disability Resources at Texas A&M University. She is past president of the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) and currently serves on the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities which makes recommendations on disability issues and helps promote compliance with disability-related laws. She frequently provides peer workshops, lectures, and external reviews at state and national conferences and on campuses throughout the United States. Kristie received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Doctor of Philosophy in School Psychology from Texas A&M University, College Station and a Master of Education in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Justin Romack

Justin Romack is an Assistant Director with Disability Resources at Texas A&M University, where he collaborates with faculty, staff and students to promote equitable access to the Aggie experience for disabled students. He works directly with the department’s assistive technology consultation and coordination, production of alternative and accessible course materials, and outreach and training on topics including digital accessibility, universal design for learning and classroom accommodations. Justin holds a master’s in educational administration from Texas A&M University and the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies from the International Association of Accessibility Professionals. He serves on the executive board for the Access Technology in Higher Education Network (ATHEN) and has previously served on the board of directors for the regional affiliate of the Association on Higher Education and Disability.

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