Care Team

The Care Team approach aims to instill self-advocacy and connect students with the appropriate office(s) that will provide the best resources for their unique academic and multidisciplinary concerns. Reports to the Care Team are reviewed during normal business hours by staff in the Office of the Dean of Students (DOS). An initial assessment will be conducted on every report; in many cases, the outcome of this initial assessment is to offer support and resources to the student of concern through the Office of the Dean of Students. In some cases, a more in-depth analysis by the Care Team may be conducted to determine the next steps for follow-up and resource referral. All reported information will be retained to help identify potential behavioral patterns.

If there is a concern for safety, DOS staff will assist those who report to contact the appropriate on-campus support and resources. If there is a potential threat, the report will be referred to the Threat Assessment Team for follow-up and intervention as appropriate to mitigate or manage the threat. While maintaining privacy is a DOS and Care Team goal, please be aware that reports and other communication may be subject to review as outlined in federal and Virginia laws and regulations. DOS staff will follow up with the reporting party as appropriate, while being mindful of the privacy of all parties involved.

Scope of Work

Receives reports of non-emergent concern (including medical issues), disruptive, problematic, violent, or concerning behavior by students, faculty/staff, and community members
Determines the best mechanisms for support, intervention, warning/notification, and response
Deploys its resources, and the resources of the campus community, and coordinates follow-up

Response Protocols

The DOS office responds to concerning behavior in a variety of ways, based on the level of concern. Actions may include:

Reaching out to the student to express concern and ask about their wellbeing
Meeting with the student(s) involved to discuss:
Student Needs, Campus and Community Resources, Behavioral Expectations
Referring the student to campus programs and services (Counseling and Psychological Services, Accessibility Resources, Financial Aid, Student Success, tutoring etc.)
Notifying and coordinating with campus partners (LUPD, University Health, etc.)
Follow-up actions as necessary

Reporting

The Care Team utilizes an online process for individuals to report concerns about students. To express concern about a student, please utilize the online form or contact the Dean of Students' office at careteam@longwood.edu or DOS@longwood.edu.