Disability and Educational Support Program (DESP)

 

Haben Girma looking off into distance.
Assistive Technology Fair with Haben Girma | Wednesday, February 12

Haben Girma, Harvard Law’s Deafblind graduate and inclusivity dynamo, will be at West Valley College to present on disability justice, accessibility and Haben's journey as an advocate. Join us for her presentation from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM in the Campus Center, and then stick around for the book signing (20 books will be given away).

After Haben's presentation, take a stroll through our disability assistive technology fair to see the latest tools that improve access for everyone, not just for persons with disabilities.

This is a free event, and we encourage community members, students and staff from nearby colleges, to join us in what will surely be a memorable visit with Haben!

 

Now Offering Free Access to Aira – Remote, On-Demand, Visual Interpreting Support
Download the Aira app, tap a button, and connect instantly with a professional visual interpreter. Use Aira throughout the West Valley College campus. Access is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

General Information

If you are a student with a disability that affects your education, the Disability and Educational Support Program (DESP) can assist you in achieving your educational goals. We provide a variety of services and specialized courses designed to insure access to all campus programs, services, and facilities, and to facilitate maximum student independence and success.

If you are requesting services, you will 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 will guide you through the intake and verification process.

New to DESP? Start Here DESP Online Services Notetaker Application

DESP Welcome

Support Services

Academic Accommodations

Walkthrough videos available.

Alternate Media and Assistive Technology

Walkthrough videos available.

Learning Disability Courses and Services Specialized Counseling

Staff

Amy Delevett

Amy Delevett

Student Services
DESP Director, ADA Compliance Coordinator, and Veterans Resource Center Director

(408) 741-2620
[email protected]
Student Services Center 108S

Chris Jackson

Chris Jackson

DESP
Alternate Media Specialist

(408) 741-2063
[email protected]
Student Services Center 108K

Jessica Jaurequi

Jessica Jaurequi

DESP
Learning Disability Specialist

(408) 741-2450
[email protected]
DESP

Erika Llantero

Erika Llantero

DESP
Counselor

(408) 741-4027
[email protected]
Student Services Center 108Q

Michael Scaletta

Michael Scaletta

DESP
Accommodation Specialist

(408) 741-2453, TTY (408) 741-2658
[email protected]
Student Services Center 108A

Tanya Southworth

Tanya Southworth

DESP
Administrative Specialist

(408) 741-2109
[email protected]
Student Services Center 108T

Paul Starks

Paul Starks

Kinesiology Department
Kinesiology Instructor

(408) 741-4005
[email protected]
Physical Education

Last Updated 1/12/25