Disability Resource Center

Disability Resources at BCC

Empowering Students, Enhancing Equity and Promoting a Culture of Inclusion

BCC Disability Resource Center

What We Do

The Disability Resource Center (DRC) at Berkshire Community College (BCC) provides accommodations and support services to students with disabilities and serve as a resource for faculty and staff to create learning environments that are usable, equitable, inclusive and welcoming. We value inclusion and equal access to our programs and activities and are committed to a climate of mutual respect and full participation.

Who We Serve

We serve students who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities such as learning or working. The impairments may be temporary or permanent.

What We Offer

We offer a variety of accommodations and support services to meet your individual needs. Some of the most common accommodations include extended time for exams, assistance with note taking and use of assistive technology. Our support services include academic coaching, evaluation and training in the use of assistive technology and consultation with faculty, campus offices and community organizations.

Contact Us

Pamela Farron, Coordinator
Dana Buxton, Success Coach

drc@berkshirecc.edu

Need accommodations for your course exam?

Schedule an Exam

Visit Us

Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Reception Desk - SBA 118

How to Apply

To obtain accommodations and support services, please complete the following three-step process at least four to six weeks before you need to take the placement test or begin your classes. There is a lot that goes into determining your eligibility for services and supporting your request for accommodations. We will need to evaluate your documentation, meet with you to discuss your individual needs, identify any barriers that may exist in your program, and investigate specific course requirements. We want to support you, so please, contact us early!

Confidentiality

Read our Confidentiality and Release of Information Policy

Our services are strictly confidential. We are committed to ensuring that your information is maintained as confidential as required, or permitted, by law. Any information collected is used for your benefit.
Helpful Resources
Guidelines for Documenting Your Disability (PDF)

Student Guide: Everything You Need to Know about Requesting and Using Disability Services (PDF)

Guidelines for Planning an Accessible Event (PDF)

Faculty Guide: Supporting and Teaching Students with Disabilities (PDF)

FAQs for Faculty and Staff

Frequently Asked Questions

If I was on an I.E.P., 504 Plan or have an otherwise documented disability, how do I obtain accommodations at BCC?

At least four to six weeks before you take the Accuplacer or start your courses, complete the application for services and upload your disability documentation.
What documentation do I need to upload to receive services?
Your I.E.P. or 504 Plan; or

Educational or medical records completed by a qualified professional that state your disability and its current impact on your academic performance and other major life activities; or

Your medical provider may complete "Step 2" in the "Apply Now" section above.

For more information, please refer to our Guidelines for Documenting your Disability.
Will disclosing my disability become part of my permanent records/transcript?

No. Your disability records are separate from your college transcripts.
Do I have to disclose my disability to my instructors?

No. Disclosing your disability is a personal choice.
What if I believe I have a disability and need accommodations, but do not have documentation?

Please contact the DRC. We may be able to refer you to a community provider who can document your disability. We can also share the resources and support services available to all BCC students and help you identify effective learning strategies or academic technology.
What do I do if I have a temporary disability such as a broken arm or leg?

You may be eligible for temporary disability accommodations. Contact the DRC for assistance.
Can I get a handicap parking permit from the DRC?

If you need to use handicap parking, you will need to contact the Registry of Motor Vehicles. BCC does not issue handicap parking permits.
Are there scholarships available for students with disabilities?

We do not offer scholarships solely on the basis of disability, but the BCC Foundation does offer scholarships to incoming, returning, and transferring students who meet certain eligibility criteria.
What steps can I take if I feel that I have been treated unfairly, discriminated against or not provided my requested accommodations based upon my disability?

You may contact the DRC for assistance, the BCC ADA/504 Compliance Officer, or file a complaint with the Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights.

Disability Resources at BCC

What We Do

Who We Serve

What We Offer

Contact Us

Visit Us

How to Apply

Confidentiality

Helpful Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

If I was on an I.E.P., 504 Plan or have an otherwise documented disability, how do I obtain accommodations at BCC?

What documentation do I need to upload to receive services?

Will disclosing my disability become part of my permanent records/transcript?

Do I have to disclose my disability to my instructors?

What if I believe I have a disability and need accommodations, but do not have documentation?

What do I do if I have a temporary disability such as a broken arm or leg?

Can I get a handicap parking permit from the DRC?

Are there scholarships available for students with disabilities?

What steps can I take if I feel that I have been treated unfairly, discriminated against or not provided my requested accommodations based upon my disability?

Student Testimonial

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