Accommodation & Inclusion FAQs

Who is eligible to request accommodations?

Any individual with a disability that impacts participation in OPRYD programs or events may request accommodations under the ADA.

How do I request an accommodation for a special event?

Please submit your request at least 10 calendar days before the event by contacting:

• Bianca Posada at (510) 535-5632 or bposada@oaklandca.gov (email preferred)

• Or by calling 711 California Relay Service

This ensures adequate time to arrange supports such as ASL interpretation, assistive listening devices, or accessible seating.

What types of accommodations can be provided for events?

Depending on the request and resources available, accommodations may include:

• ASL interpretation or captioning services

• Assistive listening devices

• Reserved accessible seating or viewing areas

• Access to a quiet or low-stimulus space

• Materials in alternative formats (large print, digital, plain language)

• On-site wayfinding or accessibility support staff

How do I request accommodations for a recreation program?

1. Register for the program of your choice (afterschool programs, summer camp, etc.)

2. Request an Accommodation Request Form from the Center Director or by emailing bposada@oaklandca.gov.

3. Submit the completed form to bposada@oaklandca.gov. You will receive confirmation that your request has been received.

4. Staff will review your request and contact you about next steps.

Please submit requests as early as possible—at least 14 calendar days before the start of the program.

What’s the difference between the Accommodation Request Form and the Inclusion Services Questionnaire?

• Accommodation Request Form: Used to request specific supports (e.g., auxiliary aides).

• Inclusion Services Questionnaire: Helps us understand the participant’s communication style, triggers, interests, and goals so we can provide the best support.

What types of accommodations can be provided for programs?

Examples of common reasonable accommodations include:

Supports for communication

• Auxiliary aides

• Visual schedules or written instructions

• Materials in large print or simplified formats

Environmental supports

• Extra transition or wait time between activities

• Alternative seating arrangements

• Use of fidget tools or noise-canceling headphones (when safe)

• Access to a quiet space when overwhelmed

Activity modifications

• Slightly modified game rules to encourage participation

• Breaks during activities

• Collaboration with outside agencies for 1:1 assistance (when staffing allows)

Are there limits to what accommodations can be provided?

Yes. OPRYD is not required to provide accommodations that would:

• Fundamentally alter the nature of a program or event

• Create an undue financial or administrative burden

• Pose a direct safety threat that cannot be reduced through reasonable modification

Examples of requests less likely to be reasonable include:

• Exclusive 1:1 staffing from City staff without an outside funding source

• Removing essential program or event activities

• Waiving basic safety requirements (e.g., supervision ratios, group rules)

• Requests that put others at risk (e.g., allowing unsafe climbing, hitting, or elopement without response)

• Structural changes such as building renovations or hiring medical clinicians

• Medical or clinical services outside staff roles (e.g., tube feeding, injections, therapy)

If you’re unsure whether a request can be accommodated, please reach out so we can explore possible options together.

Can I still attend if I didn’t request accommodations in advance?

We encourage requests at least 10–14 days before an event or program. If you miss the deadline, we’ll do our best to support you, but some accommodations (such as ASL interpreters) may not be available on short notice.

Is there a fee for accommodations?

No. Reasonable accommodations are provided at no additional cost.

Do accommodations guarantee priority registration or exceptions to program rules?

No.

• Program registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

• All participants must meet basic eligibility requirements such as age and residency.

Is transportation provided?

• Programs: Transportation to and from programs is not provided. Transportation during a program (e.g., field trips) may be available. Please list any accessibility needs related to transportation on your request forms.

• Events: OPRYD does not provide transportation to or from events unless noted.

Are personal care or medical services provided?

Staff do not provide personal care or medical services unless they are part of the program design. If such support is essential, please contact us to discuss options for reasonable modifications.

What if my child needs to take medication during program hours?

Medication support is considered on a case-by-case basis. In some situations, a waiver and written instructions from your child’s doctor may be required. Please include any medication needs on the Accommodation Request Form so staff can review and determine the safest and most appropriate plan.

Can participants bring their own aide or support person?

Yes. Participants may bring their own 1:1 aide, behavioral therapist, or support person as a reasonable modification. A background check may be required for aides working in programs.

Why might staff ask for a copy of my child’s IEP or 504 Plan?

IEPs and 504 Plans often include strategies and goals that help staff understand participant needs and design effective modifications. Sharing them is optional but strongly encouraged.