By Thomas Wilson / Staff Writer

Missouri Valley College provides accessibility services and campus facilities designed to help students with disabilities fully participate in academic and campus life.

Accessibility services at the college are coordinated through the Disability Services office, which works with students who qualify for accommodations under federal disability laws.

Director of Accessibility and Disability Services, Debbie Coleman said the office focuses on ensuring equal access for students across campus.

“Our role is to ensure equal access for students with disabilities by determining reasonable accommodations and making sure we remain compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act,” Coleman said.

Coleman said the office reviews documentation from students and works with faculty and staff to implement accommodations that support academic success.

Some common classroom accommodations include extra time on tests, taking exams in the testing center, accessible seating options and printed copies of notes when materials are not available online. Residential accommodations may include private rooms, accessible room locations and approval for emotional support or service animals.

Coleman said students must report their disability and provide documentation before accommodations can be arranged.

“Students need to self-report and submit documentation as soon as possible,” Coleman said. “Accommodations begin once documentation is received, but they are not retroactive.”

The college also works to improve building accessibility. Coleman said that although some older buildings are not required to install elevators under federal law, Missouri Valley College still takes steps to improve access.

For example, the college installed a chair lift in Baity Hall to help individuals reach the upper floors of the building.

Students say the campus layout also helps make daily life easier.

Elizabeth Riggs, a student at Missouri Valley College, said the campus facilities are easy to navigate and provide convenient study spaces.

“I’m not disabled, so I haven’t used those services myself, but the campus is very easy to navigate and everything is straightforward,” Riggs said. “It makes the day feel efficient and relaxing.”

Riggs said the campus library is one example of a location that supports students academically.

“The library is right near the entrance to campus and it’s easy to get to,” Riggs said. “It’s a nice quiet environment where students can focus.”

Aidan McKinney, a student at Missouri Valley College, said having academic buildings and offices located close together makes it easier for students to find help when needed.

“It’s pretty easy to get around campus and find what you need,” McKinney said. “Most buildings and offices are close together, so if you need help or have questions you can get assistance pretty quickly.”

Coleman said accessibility awareness has improved in recent years as more students understand their rights and the services available to them.

“Our goal is to make sure students have the opportunity to succeed,” Coleman said.