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When Students Don’t Respond

Questions to reflect on when students don’t respond

When students do not respond to outreach, it can feel alarming. It is important to consider all the variables that may be contributing to the situation. Here are some questions to reflect on:

  1. What kind of barriers might impact this student’s ability to respond? (Think trauma informed.)
  2. What is the goal of my outreach?
  3. At what point do I need to pass this along through an Academic Alert?

Email Templates

Example Email Template 1

Suitable for all students regardless of delivery method

Dear [STUDENT NAME],

I have been trying to reach you because I am growing concerned that I haven’t heard from you since [date]. Without communication and deeper engagement, I do not see how you will be able complete this course successfully. If there are barriers preventing you from engaging in this course, please let me know so we can discuss them and get you connected to resources that may support you.

If I don’t hear from you by [date], I will refer you to our Academic Alert process, which will initiate some outreach to you from support staff. They will also want to assist you in problem-solving barriers to success and connecting you to support and resources that may be helpful.

Looking forward to hearing from you,
[YOUR NAME]

Interested in more resources?

Visit the Tools and Resources page.