The Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) responds to non-immediate concerns and takes a proactive approach to discuss potential issues, intervene early, and provide support and behavioral response to students displaying varying levels of disruptive, disturbed, and/or distressed behaviors before they rise to the level of a crisis.
Process
- Receive information about students of concern and discuss concerning behaviors
- Maintain confidentiality and handle all matters discreetly
- Provide consultation, support, response to faculty and staff
- Intervene and connect students with resources; take other necessary measures to address concerns
- Coordinate follow-up. Ensure that services and resources are deployed effectively.
The Behavioral Intervention Team process does not replace faculty classroom management, disciplinary processes, and/or College Security responses to incidents.
Who are members of the BIT
- Chair Alicia Kruizenga, Dean of Student Affairs
- Dr. Connie Gutierrez, Director, DSP&S
- Shaina Phillips, Director, Student Life & Leadership
- Dr. Denna Sanchez, Psychologist
- Dr. Yokoyama, Dean of Public Safety
What to Report to the BIT
In general, any behavior that disrupts the mission or learning environment of the college or causes concern for a student’s well-being:
- Concerns about a student’s well-being
- Distressed or disturbed behavior
- Unusual occurrences
- Anything that makes you feel uncomfortable; something doesn’t seem right
How to Report to the BIT
- Inform your Dean or immediate supervisor, or
- Contact BIT by email at BIT@riohondo.edu
Potential Outcomes
The BIT may:
- Assist faculty or staff in developing a plan of action
- Refer student to existing on-campus support resources
- Refer student to appropriate community resources
- Recommend no action, pending further observation/monitoring
- Make recommendations consistent with college policies and procedures
Assisting and Managing Challenging Students – brochure
