The Center for Accessibility and Learning Equity (CALE) dedicates itself to providing equal access to programs, services and activities at Spalding University. Students concerned they have been denied equal access or accommodations requested for a documented disability may take action. Students have the right to file an internal appeal or pursue remedies beyond the University.
Center for Accessiblity and Learning Equity Grievance Policy and Procedures
Students are encouraged to speak to the Director of Accessibility and Learning Equity, Katherine Walker-Payne (502-873-4192, Library Room 314, [email protected]) or to follow Spalding University procedure for student complaints and grievances. Please see the Grievance Policy for further information
Students have two ways to express their concerns:
1.) an informal resolution procedure available through the Center for Accessiblity and Learning Equity or
2.) a formal grievance procedure through the University's appeal process.
Although students are encouraged to solve disputes at the lowest possible level and to use internal procedures to the fullest extent, a student may choose to initiate a formal grievance at any time.
Informal Resolution Procedure
Clear communication between students, faculty/staff, and the Center for Accessiblity and Learning Equity is vital to utilizing services effectively. Where possible, students are encouraged to first address concerns and problems with the individuals most directly involved in the situation. Examples of this include contacting the Director of the Center for Accessiblity and Learning Equity regarding eligibility for accommodations and specific accommodations and the individual faculty or staff member in the cases of implementation or lack of approved accommodations.
The Center for Accessiblity and Learning Equity staff is available to offer assistance by discussing and exploring options with the student and/or faculty or staff member, contacting the concerned party in an effort to clarify issues, facilitating a meeting with the concerned parties, and/or advocating for the student’s right to receive appropriate and effective accommodations to the extent required under either the Rehabilitation Act or the ADA.
Students are encouraged to express any concerns with the Director of Accessibility and Learning Equity, Katherine Walker-Payne (502-873-4192, Library Room 314, [email protected]). If for a specific reason the grievance cannot be discussed with the Director of Accessibility and Learning Equity, or if the complaint is about the Director of Accessibility and Learning Equity, contact the Dean of Students.
Formal Grievance Procedure
The student shall prepare a written complaint to the individual/office involved and, within 5 days following submission of the complaint, shall meet with a representative(s) from the office involved to discuss the complaint. Complaints must be submitted within 90 days of the event or action that gave rise to the complaint.
If no resolution is reached during the meeting required by step 1, the student shall prepare a written report of the issue and the meeting, and the office involved shall prepare a written response. The written complaint and subsequent response(s) will be submitted to the Dean or Director of the office involved within 5 business days following the meeting required by step 1.
The Dean or Director overseeing the office involved shall make a decision within 5 business days following receipt of the signed statement and response, and shall notify in writing the student and the office involved thereof. That decision is final.
Spalding University Home