Disability Discrimination Policy
American Dental Coders Association (ADCA)
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to affirm the American Dental Coders Association’s (ADCA) commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable educational environment. ADCA is dedicated to preventing discrimination on the basis of disability in all aspects of its programs, services, employment, and admissions.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all students, prospective students, faculty, staff, contractors, and visitors engaged in any ADCA educational program, course, or related activity. It covers all areas of academic and operational life, including instruction, assessments, employment, admissions, services, and access to facilities and information.
3. Policy Statement
ADCA is committed to providing equal educational opportunities and access for all individuals regardless of physical or mental disability. Discrimination or harassment based on disability is strictly prohibited. ADCA will make reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to education and employment, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship or fundamentally alter the nature of a program.
4. Definitions
- Disability: A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Qualified Individual: A person who meets the essential eligibility requirements for participation in a program or activity, with or without reasonable accommodations.
- Reasonable Accommodation: A modification or adjustment that enables an individual with a disability to fully participate in the academic or employment environment without imposing undue hardship or compromising program integrity.
5. Legal Framework
This policy is guided by and complies with applicable federal and state laws, including:
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
- Title II of the ADA for public services, including educational institutions
- Applicable state anti-discrimination laws
6. Responsibilities
- Faculty and Staff: Must support the implementation of accommodations and promote a respectful and accessible learning environment.
- Students: Are encouraged to self-identify and request accommodations through the designated office.
- ADA Coordinator or Student Services Office: Responsible for evaluating accommodation requests, maintaining documentation, and ensuring compliance.
7. Reasonable Accommodations
ADCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. These may include:
- Extended time on assessments
- Accessible learning materials
- Assistive technology
- Alternative testing environments
- Modified attendance policies
To request an accommodation, individuals must contact the Student Services Office and provide relevant documentation from a licensed professional. Requests will be reviewed in a timely, confidential, and interactive process.
8. Prohibited Conduct
Disability discrimination includes:
- Direct Discrimination: Unequal treatment based on disability.
- Indirect Discrimination: Policies or practices that unfairly affect individuals with disabilities.
- Failure to Accommodate: Unjustified denial of a reasonable request.
- Harassment: Verbal, physical, or visual conduct related to a disability that creates a hostile environment.
- Retaliation: Adverse actions taken against someone for requesting accommodations or filing a complaint.
9. Reporting and Complaint Procedures
Any individual who believes they have experienced disability discrimination or harassment should report the issue to the ADA Coordinator or Student Services Office. Reports can also be made to Human Resources (for employment-related concerns).
All complaints will be:
- Handled promptly and confidentially
- Investigated in a fair and impartial manner
- Free from retaliation for the complainant
10. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the ADA Coordinator and the Executive Leadership Team to ensure ongoing compliance with current laws and best practices.
Policy Owner: ADCA Coordinator / Student Services
Effective Date: 6/4/2025
Review Date: 6/4/2025
Contact Email: support@adcaonline.org
