Introducing the Center for Accessible Academic Resources

We're thrilled to announce the creation of the Center for Accessible Academic Resources (CAAR) at Salem State University. This new center combines disability services, peer tutoring and supplemental instruction (SI) into one cohesive unit, offering a more seamless and supportive experience for our students.

The idea behind CAAR is simple but powerful: to provide enhanced academic support and accommodations, ensuring all students have the resources they need to succeed. By bringing together these essential services, we're expanding our commitment to inclusivity and the use of universal design principles. CAAR will broaden the usage of innovative tools like Read and Write and OrbitNote, making it easier for students to interact with and transform their documents in new and accessible ways.

This change isn't just about streamlining services—it's about enhancing the quality of support we offer. With a centralized approach, CAAR will be better equipped to assist with areas like reading competency support and the placement process. Moreover, it will be a vital resource, connecting students to the academic and personal support they need across campus.

CAAR aims to improve student success and retention by providing more personalized and timely support. By closely monitoring and following up with students, especially those who haven't met competency requirements, we can ensure every student has the tools and guidance they need to thrive at Salem State.

This initiative reinforces the university’s core commitment to student success, which is at the heart of everything we do. We're excited about the positive impact CAAR will have on our community and look forward to seeing the benefits it will bring to our students' academic journeys.

Key Service Areas

• Academic and Campus Accommodations are available for students who self-identify as having a disability and would like to request support. Services and accommodations that provide equal access to curriculum and/or campus experiences are determined through documentation review and an interactive meeting with the student.
• Disability Access promotes an accessible experience by coordinating services and accommodations for visitors to Salem State and our students. We encourage all to participate in our programs and activities. To request accommodations due to a disability or for questions about campus accessibility, please email access@salemstate.edu or call 978.542.6217.
• Peer Tutors are highly recommended undergraduate students who excel in the courses they tutor and are also highly recommended by faculty. They break down challenging material, offer study tips and are eager to help you succeed.
• Supplemental Instruction offers peer-led out-of-class time sessions for select courses with historically challenging material. These sessions provide opportunities to review course concepts, have engaging discussions with supportive peers, and prepare for exams.