University of Iowa senior Justin Wittrock of Algona, who is deaf, takes notes in a electricity and magnetism class Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012, on the University of Iowa campus in Iowa City. Wittrock uses a sign language interpreter provided by the university in his classes. (Brian Ray/The Gazette)

More than 500 University of Iowa students this fall are receiving accommodations and support through the UI’s student disability services office.

Enrollment of students with disabilities has grown more than 18 percent since 2000 at Iowa’s three regent universities, according to this fall’s enrollment report to the state Board of Regents. The UI, Iowa State University and the University of Northern Iowa serve 1,607 students with disabilities this fall, up from 1,359 students in 2000. Students this fall receive nearly 5,100 services and accommodations to help them with classes, including books on tape, note-takers and extended times and special locations for tests.

Providing accommodations to students with disabilities is mandated by federal law. The college level does differ from K-12 education, where the responsibility to identify those students lies with the schools. In college, students must self-identify and request services.

Do you agree with the federal law, mandating K-12 schools and colleges provide accommodations and services to students  with disabilities?