The Disability and Educational Support Program (DESP) was created in 1973 to provide equal access and equal educational opportunities for students with disabilities.

Specialized Counseling is available for personal, academic, and vocational needs.

Learning Disability Services (LDS) provides assessments to determine eligibility for services as a learning disabled adult at California Community Colleges, Universities, or State Universities. The program also offers specialized classes and labs for students with learning disabilities.

Communication Disability Services provides speech, and language evaluations; in addition classes are offered for students who demonstrate communication difficulties in language, memory, and or listening following stroke or other neurological impairment.

The Computer Lab provides instruction in the use of computers for: Word Processing, Adaptive Software and Hardware, and Tutorial Programs. Cognitive retraining is available for those students with acquired brain injury and other neurological dysfunctions and impairments.

Adapted Physical Education offers a variety of classes designed especially for students with disabilities. Classes include: General Fitness, Rhythmic Aerobics, Weight Training, Stretching and Flexibility, and Sports Conditioning. Individual programs are developed for each student and are geared to meet the student's particular fitness needs.

Support Services such as readers, note takers, test assistance, real-time educational reporters, sign language interpreters, special equipment, and mobility assistance are provided to help integrate and mainstream disabled students.

Adobe PDF Version:  •  DESP Student Handbook( accessible PDF 105 KB ) *
Microsoft Word Version:  •  DESP Student Handbook( DOC 104 KB )

The DESP Staff Directory provides a listing of DESP faculty and staff.

Important information about web accessibility issues and guidelines is available.

The DESP section of the West Valley College catalog provides a complete description of DESP classes.

How to Receive Services
Students requesting services need to meet eligibility criteria. A physical, mental, learning, or sensory disability that qualifies for academic accommodations under the law must be verified by a credentialed, certified, or licensed professional. A counselor or program specialist guides students through the intake and verification process.