Student Success

Student referrals offer a proactive way to connect students with timely, personalized support based on real-time observations. As faculty and staff members, you play a vital role in identifying opportunities where guidance, mentoring, or resources can make a meaningful difference.

Academic referrals offer valuable insight into the needs of a student. This process allows for the referrer to select the desired enrolled student(s), share observations including estimated grade, participation/engagement level, attendance, class presence, and suggest potential strategies for improvement.

Referrals that may involve collaboration or escalation to other units, including the Dean of Students' Case Management team, will be reviewed and shared regularly. Duplicate submissions are not necessary for the same student across both processes within the same time frame. However, if a new academic concern arises at a later time, a new academic referral may be submitted as appropriate.

We recognize that student concerns often intersect both academic and personal dimensions. When in doubt, take a moment to reflect on your primary concern and your role in the student's experience—this will help guide your decision toward the most effective support channel. There is never a wrong referral, the Student Success Team and the Case Management team work collaboratively and will ensure the appropriate follow-up.

• Engage with the student as appropriate. When possible, let the student know you will/have referred them as it can assist with transparency.
• Use the appropriate referral form based on the nature of the concern (academic vs. personal/wellness).
• Provide clear, factual observations in the referral (e.g., missed assignments, change in behavior), avoiding assumptions or diagnoses.
• Follow up with the student after submitting a referral when appropriate—referrals don't replace personal outreach.
• Respect student privacy and understand that you may not receive follow-up details due to FERPA regulations.
• Refer immediately to emergency services, as necessary (Appalachian Police Department or Counseling and Psychological Services) if the student poses a safety risk to themselves or others.

Academic Referral Examples

• "Student has missed three assignments and two quizzes. Appears disengaged during class discussions."
• "Student asked for help but hasn't followed through on suggested resources. Appears overwhelmed."

Care & Concern Referral Examples

• "Student disclosed recent family crisis and seemed emotionally withdrawn in class and in advising session."
• "Student emailed about suicidal thoughts—referred immediately to emergency counseling services."