Incoming High School Students

Welcome high school students! Entering college can be both exciting and scary. The videos and links listed below are designed to help you begin this new journey and walk you through the basics of learning about Palomar College services and how to prepare to be a college student.

Use these videos to learn how to choose a major, read a syllabus and so much more.

Key Differences Between K–12 and College Disability Support

Students transitioning from high school to college will experience important differences
in how disability services, accommodations, and responsibilities are handled.

Access to Records

K–12: Parents and students have access to educational records.
College: Records belong to the student. Parents may only access information with written student consent.

Disability Identification & Documentation

K–12: The school district identifies disabilities and provides services through an IEP or 504 Plan.
College: Students are responsible for identifying themselves and submitting disability documentation to the Disability Resource Center.

Accommodations and Support

K–12: Special education classes, instructional modifications, and related services may be provided.
College: No special education classes, IEPs, or 504 Plans. Accommodations provide equal access but do not modify course content or guarantee success.

Responsibility for Academic Success

K–12: Teachers, counselors, and parents monitor progress and provide support.
College: Students are responsible for managing their coursework, requesting accommodations, and seeking support.

Course Modifications

K–12: Course content and requirements may be fundamentally modified.
College: Accommodations cannot fundamentally alter academic standards or program requirements.

Advocacy

K–12: Parents and school staff often advocate on behalf of the student.
College: Students must self-advocate and communicate directly with instructors and the DRC.

Personal Services

K–12: May include personal aides, transportation, or other personal services.
College: Personal services are not provided. Students must arrange their own support.

Governing Laws

K–12: IDEA, Section 504 (Subpart D), and the ADA.
College: Section 504 (Subpart E) and the ADA. IDEA does not apply.

Forms
Authorization for Release of Information

Your DRC Team
drc@palomar.edu

Getting Started with the DRC

Watch this video to learn how to get started with the DRC.

How to Choose a Major

Learn how to choose a major.

How to Read a Course Syllabus

Learn how to read a course syllabus.

The World of Alternate Media and E books

Learn about alternate media and e-books.

Empowering Your Student with a Disability (English)

Watch Empowering Your Student with a Disability, Presented by Alyssa Vafaei, Disability Resource Center counselor

Empowering Your Student with a Disability (Spanish)

Watch Empowering Your Student with a Disability (Spanish), Presented by Alyssa Vafaei, Disability Resource Center counselor, translation provided by DRC Counselor, Crystal Velasco