Transitioning from High School to College with a Disability Your Next Step, Your Way
High School vs. College: What鈥檚 Different?
Moving to college comes with new responsibilities. Use this quick guide to see how things change.
| Area | High School | College |
|---|---|---|
| Education Laws | IDEA focuses on success | ADA focuses on access |
| Advocacy | Parents and teachers advocate | You advocate for yourself |
| Parent Role | Parents have access to records | Parents need your written consent |
| Instruction | Teachers may adjust assignments and tests | Instructors cannot change assignments and tests |
| Grades & Tests | Frequent, smaller tests with reminders | Fewer, larger tests - syllabus is key |
| Studying | 0-2 hrs/week typical | 2-3 hrs study for every class hour |
Key Things to Remember
- As a college student, you must start your own accommodation process.
- Parents need your written consent to access records.
- You鈥檙e responsible for following procedures for accommodations and equipment.
- If something changes, contact your case manager right away.
Build Your Communication Skills Now
Getting ready in high school makes the transition smoother. Practice by:
Sending your own emails and making your own appointments.
Learning about your disability and what strategies help you.
Managing your time and organizing your schoolwork.
Tip: The more you practice self-advocacy in high school, the easier it will be in college.
How Parents and Guardians Can Help
At 冈本视频, students take the lead in their education. Parents and guardians can help by:
Encouraging independence and problem-solving.
Supporting, but not directing, the accommodation process.
Letting their student practice self-advocacy before college.
Setting Up Accommodations at 冈本视频
Here鈥檚 what to expect when you request accommodations:
- Self-identify: Submit documentation of your disability to Disability Services.
- Meet your case manager: Talk through how your disability affects learning.
- Agree on accommodations: You and your case manager create a plan together.
- Connect with instructors: Share your accommodation plan at the start of classes.
Reminder: The process starts with you. Parents can support, but only you can begin.
Meet Your Support Team
Your Disability Services team is here to guide you every step of the way. Get to know your case managers and find the right person to connect with.
Ready to get started?
Meet Our Team | Phone: 920-498-6904 | Email: disability.services@nwtc.edu | Location: Green Bay Campus SC229
Fall/Spring Hours: Monday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Summer Hours: Monday - Thursday: 7:30 a.m. 鈥� 4:30 p.m. | Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.