Division of Student Affairs > Disability Resources and Educational Services

Accommodation Appeal Process

Resolving Accommodation Disputes

Introduction:

California State University, Northridge is committed to removing barriers for persons with disabilities. It is also the policy of the CSU (Executive Order 926) to make its programs, services, and activities accessible to students, faculty, staff, and the general public who visit or attend a campus-sponsored event, with disabilities. This policy is in accordance with applicable state and federal laws including, but not limited to, the ADA, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.; Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, 29 U.S.C. § 794 et seq.; and applicable state laws, including but not limited to the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), Government Code § 12940 et seq. and Education Code §§ 67302 and 67310-13. In the event a dispute arises regarding the provisions of accommodations, there is a process in place for students to pursue solutions. This document describes the remedies available to students in the event that there is a dispute regarding the appropriateness of a particular student accommodation. Every effort will be made to resolve the dispute as expeditiously as possible.

Informal Resolution Procedures

All students are encouraged to resolve disputes at the informal level by first speaking directly to the faculty or staff member involved, outlining the nature of the dispute and suggesting solutions. In the event this does not result in a solution, the student is strongly encouraged to then speak to the department or unit head. If the dispute is related to accommodations provided by the Disability Resources and Educational Services office, the student should first contact the Director of DRES.

Experience has shown that the majority of complaints can be effectively resolved through the informal process. In some instances students may wish to contact a DRES counseling staff and ask for assistance with advisory, informal mediation and conciliation services.

To initiate the formal resolution process, a complaint must be filed with the Office of Equity and Diversity. Students should be prepared to provide the following information:

1. the complainant's name, address, and phone number;
2. the specific act(s) or circumstances(s) alleged to constitute the discriminatory actions that are the basis of the complaint, including the time and place of the alleged discriminatory action; and
3. the remedy requested.

Office of Equity and Diversity contact information:

Office location: University Hall 285
Phone: (818) 677-2077
Fax: (818) 677-4820
18111 Nordhoff Street
Northridge, CA 91330-8208