What is the Early Alert System?

The purpose of the early alert system is to provide timely and appropriate intervention to students demonstrating academic, physical, or emotional behaviors that may stand in the way of their academic success.  Designed to raise the level of retention and persistence to graduation, faculty and staff are asked to fill out the on-line Early Alert form.  This form will allow faculty and staff to send a concern at any point in the semester and will allow, in particular, interventions prior to mid-terms. The form will be automatically sent to the Dean of Students office.  The person sending the form will be sent to a notification page, which serves as a submission confirmation.  The Dean of Students office will work with individuals at the College to address the presenting issue and provide appropriate services to students early in the semester. 

Using the on-line Early Alert form will facilitate the collection of data that will further clarify student need/issue trends and will help focus resources more strategically. 

What types of behaviors can lead to academic failure?

• High rate of absenteeism (more than 3 absences)
• Habitual tardiness
• Failure to turn in assignments
• Submission of poor quality assignments/papers/projects
• Missed tests, quizzes, or major examinations
• Low test/quiz performance
• Class disruption, disrespect, etc.
• Sleeping in class
• Inadequate preparation
• Missing homework
• Poor time management
• Poor writing skills
• Struggling with course material
• Patterns of significant interpersonal conflict
• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Lack of integration into campus community (finding niche)
• Illness
• Poor social skills
• Mental health issues-depression, suicidal
• Excessive work
• Traumatic event
• Unresolved financial aid issues
• Family concerns or issues

Is my submission confidential?

The submission is password protected and encrypted.  It cannot be accessed by anyone other than the Dean of Students Office.  All disclosure of information will follow FERPA guidelines and will be shared only with those who have a legitimate need to know.

How do I access the form?

Go to: http://www.wcstudentdevelopment.com/clientlogin.asp

Will the student know that I submitted an Early Alert form?

The Early Alert team prefers that the person submitting the alert fill in the section, "Person making the referral."  However, even if this section is not filled in, the alert will be followed up.

How do I fill out the form?

Go to: 

http://www.wcstudentdevelopment.com/clientlogin.asp 

Enter the appropriate username and password, complete form and select "save and file" to submit referral. If you do not have that information, please contact Andre Coleman at acoleman@whittier.edu.  

Who is on the Early Alert team?

Early Alert team members are Kristina Alvarado-Gonzalez, Rosalba Rios, Shikana Porter, Rafael Matos, Lisa Bortman,  Charles Eastman, Fritz Smith, Bill Gartrell, and Jeanne Ortiz.