In addition to classroom-based academic accommodations, the Office of Accessibility also oversees accommodations granted in on-campus residence halls and dining plans due to a disabling condition. Eckerd College has developed specific protocols for managing these accommodation requests so that concerns can be reasonably accommodated and students can participate fully in the College’s academic and co-curricular program.
Housing
Requesting housing accommodations due to a disability involves planning and careful consideration. All housing requests are reviewed by the Specialized Housing Accommodation Review Group in accordance with Office of Accessibility guidelines. All Eckerd College students living in residence halls are expected to follow housing policies and procedures developed by the Housing Office and Division of Student Affairs. As students consider their intention to request specialized housing, they should be aware of their responsibilities as outlined in the Eckerd College Housing Agreement and the regulations as set forth by the Office of Community Standards.
Housing accommodations are determined to accommodate the documented impact of a disability and are not based on a specifically diagnosed condition or label. Consequently, sometimes the severity of the impact of a disability or medical condition may reach the level of needing housing accommodations; other times, it will not.
On-campus housing is limited and accommodations must be coordinated through multiple offices. Request housing accommodations as early as possible to expedite the process.
Documentation RequiredEmotional Support Animals (ESAs), Service Animals (SAs), and Service Animals In-Training (SAITs)
All students with animals — pets, SAs, SAITs and/or ESAs — must abide by the guidelines of the Pet Policy. Exceptions to the guidelines apply only as follows: (1) to documented and approved ESAs, as defined by the Fair Housing Act and (2) to SAs and/or SAITs, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act as Amended and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Meal Plan Exemptions
All students who reside on campus, with the exception of those living in the Omega Residence Hall, are required to be on a college meal plan. This requirement insures that students are provided with proper nutrition while having the opportunity to engage socially with their peers while dining.
Students who have a medically diagnosed dietary condition (i.e. severe food allergies, Celiac disease, etc.) may submit a meal plan exemption request online no later than the deadlines listed in the policy.
Every effort will be made to meet the student’s dietary needs before an exemption is considered.
