How do you keep students from falling between the cracks?

Paul Bowers

Now more than ever, schools are looking for ways to keep in touch with students who are at the highest risk of dropping out or failing academically.


We wanted to open up a discussion: What metrics do you use to keep track of which students are falling behind? Do you have certain thresholds you keep an eye out for in terms of assignment grades, course grades, or absences?

Danielle Sassman

Hi Paul, 


We have a Student Success Committee who sends out regular emails to our faculty, asking to send us a report of any "causes for concerns" with students. At my previous organization, we also had an online form faculty could complete (with the option to be anonymous) for any concerns with students as well. For students who are high-risk or on-track to fail, we try check in with them regularly to see how they're doing and also reach out to their instructors.