Disability and Accessibility Officer

1. BASIC FUNCTIONS:

The Disability and Accessibility Officer is responsible for providing comprehensive support to students with disabilities within the Accessible Education Office (AEO), ensuring their full access to academic and campus life. This role involves coordinating accommodations, advocating for students' needs, streamlining procedures, and fostering an inclusive environment within the university.

2. DUTIES PERFORMED:

Meets with students requesting accommodations and provides guidance on eligibility and/or related services.

Assesses and determines reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities in compliance with relevant legislation (e.g., ADA, Section 504), after consulting with the Director of AEO.

Regularly reviews and updates accommodation plans to ensure they meet students' evolving needs.

Participates in the registration of new and returning students for AEO services including checking forms and proper documentation. Assists when needed.

Provides support and guidance for students with disabilities registered with the AEO, including advising on accommodations and related accessibility needs on campus.

Develops and maintains comprehensive student records related to the AEO.

Follows-up with students registered with the AEO by gathering input on their current treatment/interventions and academic performance.

Addresses students concerns related to their accommodations and reports to the Director of AEO for required measures to take.

Serves as a liaison between students, faculty, and external organizations/agencies.

Coordinates the implementation of accommodations with faculty, staff, and other departments.

Participates in regular meetings with faculty to discuss student cases (upon need), accommodation plans and address any concerns or adjustments needed.

Reports to director of AEO concerns related to the delivery of accommodations from faculty/staff.

Collects feedback and follows-up (upon need) from qualified healthcare professionals treating students registered with the AEO, for a comprehensive review of their case and accommodations.

Participates and assists in the planning and implementation of training and workshops for faculty, staff, and students to raise awareness about disability issues and promote an inclusive campus culture.

Assists in the development and implementation of policies and procedures related to disability services.

Stays updated on legal requirements and best practices in disability services in higher education.

Assists in developing and refining procedures to streamline the accommodation process, making it more accessible and efficient for students and faculty.

Assists in preparing reports on the usage and effectiveness of AEO services for internal and external stakeholders.

Compiles surveys and evaluations filled out by students/faculty/staff and assemble summary sheets of the evaluations including all comments.

Drafts AEO letters of accommodations for students.

Collects information and assist in preparing descriptive and statistical reports on the AEO activities to compile the semester’s and annual statistics.

Assists the Director of AEO in the preparation of the department annual report through compiling relevant information from stakeholders.

Assists in social media planning and generation of content for various platforms.

Participates in various activities such as needs assessment or any other AEO activity.

Coordinates with the counseling department and other support networks on campus as necessary.

Participates in creating clear guidelines for faculty on accommodating students with disabilities, ensuring consistency and understanding across departments.

Uses feedback from students and faculty to continuously improve accommodation processes.

Performs other related duties as requested.

3. WORK CONTACTS:

Regular contact with colleagues at the office of Student Affairs, faculty, staff, students, and external organizations/ agencies when needed.

4. INDEPENDENCE OF OPERATION:

Reports to the Director of Accessible Education.

Works according to established procedures, clearly set precedents and professional standards. Completed work is subject to subsequent review.

5. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.

6.   PHYSICAL EFFORT:

Minimal.

7.   WORK CONDITIONS:

Clean and pleasant.

8.   MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special education, Psychology, Psychomotor Therapy, Speech and Language therapy or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.

Minimum of 5 years of experience in a relevant field such as in disability services, preferably in a high school or higher education setting.

Strong understanding of disability legislation and best practices in higher education.

Demonstrated commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity.

Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Proficiency in assistive technologies and software commonly used in educational settings.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Good knowledge of English and Arabic.

Good familiarity with Microsoft office tools.