Amid the ongoing housing crisis, Scripps College has freed up rooms by curing students’ accommodations. In an email sent to Scripps students with accommodations, ARS included multiple links to other links which eventually lead to one more link that lead to an email that referenced another email (sent only to ARS employees) which says:
“While ARS previously deemed your accommodation requests ‘important to your success as a vibrant young student at Scripps College: The Historically Women’s College: The Intersectional Feminist College: The In Community College,’ we have since reconsidered your needs. This is because you do not have a disability anymore, you are cured in our eyes :)”
The email continued: “We value Scripps students and their strengths, and we want to show you that we believe in your ability to overcome disabilities. Epilepsy, cancer, OCD, Crohn’s, arthritis—these are all just states of mind. This is not denying your rights as a student with disabilities, it is giving you the opportunity to live just like your classmates!”
ARS concluded: “Furthermore, as our country distances itself from equality, Scripps College is doubling down in pursuit of it; whether you are normal or a freak, you are equal in the eyes of scripps college. You should be treated as such. If you have any further questions, do NOT ask, do NOT EVEN CONSIDER ASKING. This is not a threat.”
When one student went to complain in-person and tell ARS that OCD is not just a “state of mind,” she was met with immaturity. “Whoever was working just locked the door, closed their eyes, put their fingers in their ears, and yelled ‘lalalalalalalalala,’ until I eventually left.”
When contacted for comment for their accommodation changes, ARS’ automated email system replied:
“Thank you for reaching out to the office of Academic Resources and Services. We have received an influx of emails, and it may take some time for us to respond. You being able to send an email indicates that you do not need anything more from us. We promise to consider responding within two years of your graduation year. Please do not follow up. Our office does not exist. We do not know what phone is. Goodbye.”
ARS has not responded to any messages since March.