Frequently Asked Questions

What about the student’s right to privacy?

The test for privacy is based on the concept of “need to know.” What do we need to know about the student in order to help them succeed? What do you need to inform us about the student that would assist us in ensuring the student’s success? A student’s participation in the program is voluntary. After we contact the student they can elect to not participate in the support that is being offered to them. It is preferable, although not mandatory, that the instructor speak with the student prior to referring them to this program. All records are kept confidential. As an instructor you will only be informed that contact with the student through this program has occurred. Details of the support offered will not be disclosed although the student may elect to inform you themselves.

Do faculty remain anonymous?

When contacting students, the Student Services team will inform the student of who made the referral and why the team was alerted. Referrals are much more positively received by students if faculty let the student know in advance that they are referring the student to Early Alert and why. 

What feedback do faculty receive after sending an alert?

All Early Alerts produce outreach by a Student Services team; however, a student's response is voluntary. Whether a student engages with a service and what discussion or outcomes that ensue is kept private and confidential.