Differences Between High School and College

The services a student may receive in college are different from those a student receives in college.  In high school, students' educational rights are covered by IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Act).  Students are entitled to a free, appropriate public education, and special education services are offered to students who qualify for services.  Students receive accommodations to increase access to the educational environment and curriculum.  They also receive specialized instruction to address skill deficits that are related to a disability.  Sometimes modifications are made to what students learn.

Colleges, however, must comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the civil Rights Restoration Act.  This means that students may receive certain accommodations in order to increase access to the educational environment and curriculum, but specialized instruction and modifications to the curriculum are NOT provided.  

In order to receive accommodations, a student must disclose that s/he has a disability and request accommodations.  The college will NOT seek out a student to offer accommodations.  

*See below for more information on the differences between high school and colleges.

Documentation Guidelines

Providing documentation of disability is the responsibility of the student. In general, the less obvious the disability, the more information is required to assess a student's needs and make accommodation recommendations.

Documentation should be recent, relevant and comprehensive and, where appropriate, contain test scores and interpretation (e.g. learning disability reports, audiograms, etc.). If the original documentation is incomplete or inadequate to determine the extent of the disability or reasonable accommodation, the university has the discretion to require additional documentation. Any cost incurred in obtaining additional documentation is also borne by the student.

Shepherds College

Shepherds College is a three-year post-secondary school that assists young adults with intellectual disabilities in successfully transitioning from school to work, and from home to independent living.

We are one of only a few resources for students with intellectual disabilities in the nation. Students at Shepherds College receive education, skills training, and support to successfully bridge the gap from school and home to Appropriate Independence.

Along with studies in Culinary Arts, Technology and Horticulture, Shepherds College offers a general education program that is focused on helping the students develop skills they will need for everyday life.  The Functional Academic classes are practical in nature, reviewing and then building on the aptitude each student possesses.  Like the other components of Shepherds College, the intent of these classes is to assist students in their personal transition and pursuit of Appropriate Independence in their work, home, and social life.

UW-Whitewater - L.I.F.E Program

If you would like additional information on Colleges check out "Think College" to give you more resources.