Mission Statement, Values Statement & Student Learning Outcomes

Mission Statement

At West Chester University, the Office of Educational Accessibility (OEA) appreciates disability as an integral part of the University experience. We are committed to providing equal access and opportunity to all campus programs and services for persons with disabilities. Through collaboration and support of the entire campus community, the OEA promotes disability pride, self-determination of the student, and universally accessible design principles so that everyone has full access to University life. The OEA strives to provide and/or coordinate supportive services that enable students with disabilities to maximize their educational potential. The OEA is committed to working with students, staff, and faculty in developing and implementing the most appropriate strategies for a successful learning experience while maintaining the academic standards and integrity of the mission of the University.

The OEA provides services and programs that ensure compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990). All programs and services are in keeping with the University's mission to provide equal education for all qualified students.

U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Disability Rights Section: https://www.ada.gov/cguide.htm

Vision Statement

At West Chester University, the Office of Educational Accessibility (OEA) will strive to become a model program serving students with disabilities in higher education. We are committed to developing a society in which individuals with disabilities thrive and fully participate. These individuals will be challenged to become responsible decision-makers, problem-solvers, and self-advocates in charge of their own destiny. We will provide students with the opportunity to reach their full academic potential. The OEA will foster independent self-determined learner’s thereby increasing student retention.

Student Learning Outcomes

As a result of engaging with the Office of Educational Accessibility, student will:

  • Understand their rights and responsibilities, the appropriate accommodation request processes, and how to fully access approved accommodations
  • Be able to address access barriers and academic difficulties through reflection, critical thought, and problem solving
  • Be able to demonstrate self-awareness in articulating functional limitations in relation to access barriers
  • Know how to utilize assistive technologies needed for equitable access
  • Make independent contacts and/or follow through when they receive resource referrals