Information for faculty and staff

At Early Support, we know being a student is difficult and there are multiple factors that go into their ability to perform well. It’s complex and looks different for everyone. The Early Support program approaches student support from a non-clinical case management, holistic and trauma-informed lens where support is personalized to the student. 

Early Support allows faculty and staff to refer a student they might think would benefit from some support. Early Support is then able to conduct outreach in attempts to connect with the student. When a referral is submitted for a student, the student has the option to opt-out of the support opportunity by responding to the outreach and informing us that they are doing fine. If the student chooses to opt-in to the support opportunity, Early Support will then inquire with the student what additional support they might be needing at this point in time.

 

Some examples of when faculty and/or staff would consider making a referral to Early Support:

  • To consult about getting guidance in navigating a student case
  • Significant decrease in academic performance and/or at risk of failing
  • Marked change in mood or behaviour 
  • Has been unresponsive to attempts at contact and/or attending class without notice
  • The student discloses personal issues they are struggling to manage
  • Any other behaviour that indicates the student might be facing difficulties

How to talk to students about Early Support

 If possible, let the student know that you will be submitting a referral for them to Early Support during a conversation or through email. Students often appreciate knowing that you are concerned for their well-being and thoughtful about getting them connected to additional support. We want to acknowledge that you play a specific and crucial role in a student’s support system and you are not expected to fulfill all the students' needs. Please feel free to utilize Early Support as a supplementary resource for both the students and yourself. 


Early Support also offers in-person presentations about the service, they are around 10 mins in length. It’s a good opportunity for students to put a face to the program and make it feel less daunting to access. If you would like to book an in-person presentation, please contact earlysupport@mtroyal.ca with your course name, section times and corresponding classroom locations. 

For Faculty - How to include Early Support in your course syllabus

 "As your instructor, I will do my best to support your success during the term and I encourage you to come and speak with me if you need assistance. If I am concerned about your academic performance or your well-being I may submit a referral to Early Support and will do my best to notify you of my intention. If this does occur, you will be contacted directly by Early Support. Early Support does not in any way affect or appear on your academic record or transcript. If you find yourself in need of additional support throughout the semester, you can utilize Early Support through the self-referral process at mru.ca/EarlySupport"