Community Resources
I disagree with the last question,not handing out a list of community resources. I often find it very valuable, especially for students out of state or town, to know where they can find a bank, doctor, hospital, etc.. This type of information could make their transition a little easier.
Julia,
Is there a reason for the non referral policy?
Susan Backofen
We used to have a Retention Officer who dealt with student issues, but that position was eliminated. Now the onus is on the instructors to contact students who don't show up for class. We listen to their stories and sometimes it's clear that community resources might be able to help. However, we have been told that we really aren't supposed to refer students to outside agencies.
About the best we can do is find out who their Admissions Rep is and contact them, and hope they can help.
Kathleen--
We so often take these things for granted! I agree, providing a list of area resources is extremely helpful for retention.
Susan
I remember when I went to a new school in a new city (not even a new state) and I was incredibly grateful for the information on the available resources around the school (including groceries, clothing stores, libraries). It was incredibly helpful for navigating the area.
I believe such things should be provided to new students as well as options of who to contact in case they still don't understand where exactly something is and need more precise directions.
We also give out a list of community resources at Orientation, 60% of our students come from out of state and appreciate medical & dental clinic information, bus information, food banks, social services, etc.
We also try to have an Student Resources/Employer Fair once a quarter after a new group of students start. It is a traditional employer fair for job applicants and we added companies that can provide resources that students may need: banks,(they often have free college student accounts) Dentists, (first check up often free) Bus information with maps; Day Care providers; Discount Hair Salons, etc.
I also disagree with that questions. I want my students to access programs that will help them be more sucessful. It gets them to get out and ask questions about their community and discover(hopefully)they can improve all areas of their lives.
Outstanding! I think we often forget that community resources are willing to help our students like this. Great work!
Susan
I agree, my first week i just reached out to a local non profit and was able to get a $200 scholarship for one of my single moms in need.
