Why go through the DSO, especially if the disability is obvious?

Students need to be routed through the DSO because the DSO is designated by the institution with the responsibility of determining and authorizing accommodations. The staff are trained and equipped to evaluate disability documentation. Going through the DSO protects the faculty member, the student and the institution from both legal and nonlegal problems.

From a student perspective, the DSO protects confidentiality and has experienced counselors available to help determine the most effective accommodation plan. From a faculty perspective, the DSO provides essential support in coordinating and implementing the accommodation plan. In many cases, it is the DSO that provides the accommodations such as sign language interpreters and testing accommodations. Working through the DSO may also help prevent students from requesting additional accommodations that may be unreasonable.