Why should I create an early alert student referral?

Retention, retention, retention. Student referrals are part of the early alert process at Spoon River College. The ultimate goal of the early alert system is to intervene at the first sign of distress and to continue intervening as necessary. By submitting student referrals, you are supporting the college’s first goal in the strategic plan, student success.

Contacting students early greatly increases their chances for success in class and college as a whole. However, intervention at any time is critical. Students should be referred for any academic or personal need that may get in the way of them completing a course or their educational goals. This procedure is not intended as a substitute for the instructor informing students of their academic progress. Student Success Coaches will encourage students to speak with their instructors, as well as refer them to campus services for assistance.

When should I complete an early alert referral?

Not participating – When class participation is required and the student isn’t engaging.
Not attending class – If a student has missed 2 consecutive class periods.
Excessive tardiness – When a student has been consistency late or leaving early
Not completing assignments and homework – After 1 missed/late assignment
Low test/quiz scores – After the first quiz/test and the student scored below a C
Appears to lack motivation – Student doesn’t appear to be giving their best effort or is having difficulty understanding the content
Other/personal – When a student is struggling with any issue that is preventing them from being successful in the classroom

Can I submit an early alert for any student?

Yes, any and all students should be referred if they have a need that is preventing them from being successful in the classroom.

What should I expect after an early alert referral has been submitted?

Once a student has been referred, a student success coach (SSC) will attempt to contact that student. When the first attempt is made, you will receive an automatically generated email letting you know how the SSC attempted to reach out to the student. If no contact is made, the SSC will continue reaching out. We will attempt to contact by phone, email, Canvas, and as a last resort, a letter to their address on file. Once contact is made, you will receive another email letting you know the plan of action.

How do I create an early alert referral?

Faculty-Early-Alert-Guide-for-LRC-TRiO.pdf

For questions about the Early Alert process, please contact:

Alex Kellerman, Student Success Coach in Macomb/Rushville
309-833-6048

-OR-

Student Success Coach in Canton/Havana
309-649-6225
andrea.white@src.edu