The purpose of this guidance is to provide information to academic units on how to effectively manage situations in which there is concern about whether a student with a mental health impairment is fit for continued enrollment or fit to return to enrollment after an absence. In managing student fitness issues, the University of Michigan adheres to the following core values:
Nondiscrimination and Inclusiveness. The University’s commitment to diversity and inclusiveness extends to students with disabilities, including mental health impairments. The University complies with all laws prohibiting unlawful disability discrimination including, but not limited to, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Michigan Persons with Disabilities Act. Accordingly, unlawful discrimination based on stereotypes or perceived dangers or barriers associated with individuals with disabilities is contrary to the standards of the University community[1].
Health and Safety. The University is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy academic and work environment for all community members.
Integrity of Academic Standards. Academic units have the responsibility and authority to determine student fitness for continued enrollment or re-enrollment based on the student’s actual performance (or lack of satisfactory performance) and demonstrated ability (or demonstrated inability) to meet the academic, behavioral and professional standards of the program in which they are enrolled. All students are expected to meet the same standards of performance. Academic policies (e.g., progression, academic standing, re-instatement or re-enrollment) should be applied fairly and consistently to all students.
Confidentiality and Privacy. Students are entitled to the confidential management of their medical records handled by those with a legitimate educational interest in having that information and those with the professional capacity to meaningfully interpret medical records. Likewise, students have the right to determine what personal or private information they choose to share with the University.
[1] The University’s Nondiscrimination Policy is available at: http://www.hr.umich.edu/oie/ndpolicy.html