What kind of things should be reported?
Report anything that is suspicious or makes you concerned. Direct threats, extreme displays of emotion, obsession with violence or death, possession of a weapon or explosive device, inappropriate classroom behavior, unusual fixation on another person, manipulative behavior, extreme weight gain or loss, expression of intent to harm oneself or others, severe disorientation, and apparent lack of touch with reality should all be reported.
Will the student that I’m reporting know it was me?
That depends on the situation. If you’d like your identity to remain unknown to the person you are reporting, please note that in your report. The Care Team will do its best to honor your request for anonymity. When acting in the best interest of the student we may not be able to honor this request.
What happens when I make a report?
The Care Team receives and discusses the information. The team will determine an action plan if applicable. Often the initial report is just one piece of the puzzle. Something one person observes can turn out to be nothing or an indication of a larger problem. The team attempts to understand the issues presented before making any decisions.
Will I find out what happens?
That depends on the situation. You may be contacted if the Care Team needs additional information regarding your report. Various privacy and confidentiality laws apply to the situations handled by the Care Team.
I don’t want to get anyone in trouble and I’m not really sure this is a big deal.
The purpose of the Care Team is not to get people in trouble. In most instances, we are able to resolve the situation without disciplinary action against the student involved. If you are unsure about whether or not you should say something, report it! Trust your instincts. The CARETeam is here to serve and help students.
What about privacy? Aren’t I prohibited from disclosing student information by FERPA?
Not in this situation. Everyone on the Care Team is a university employee with a legitimate educational interest, which means FERPA expressly permits the sharing of any and all information from you to the Care Team. The Care Team will make decisions about who else may need to be contacted to resolve the issue(s).
When and how often does the Care Team meet?
Meetings of the Care Team occur weekly in a confidential location. Special or emergency meetings are called as necessary.
Should I contact the Care Team in the event of an emergency?
The Care Team is not for emergencies. If a student’s behavior presents an immediate threat please call the UAB Police at 934-3535 or 911.