Classroom Disruption and Threats

CAMPUS GUIDELINES FOR RESPONDING TO DISRUPTIVE AND THREATENING STUDENTS

A growing number of faculty members have inquired about the protocol for dealing with disruptive and threatening students in their classrooms.  While every situation may be different and there are no cookie-cutter menus, the Rutgers-Newark Threat Assessment Team (TAT) has put together the following guidance (pdf) to assist you in handling students who become disruptive and/or are threatening in your classrooms.  Please refer to it as needed.  Also, please refer to “Safety and Security” tab on the campus website home page or go to www.newark.rutgers.edu.  We will also be distributing a desk guide shortly which will assist you in determining what to do in various situations involving students in distress or needing support services. 

PLEASE NOTE – if a student is expressing suicidal ideation or threats to kill, please call the campus police immediately at ext. 5581 or ext. 5111.

The primary responsibility for managing the classroom environment rests with the faculty.  Students who engage in any prohibited or unlawful behavior that results in disruption of a class may be directed by the faculty member to leave the class for the remainder of the class period.  Longer suspensions from a class, or dismissal on disciplinary grounds, must be preceded by a Hearing or Disciplinary Conference, as set forth in the Code on Student Conduct.  In all cases, you should notify and work with your administrative deans, including the submittal of a Threat Assessment Form where behavior threatens the safety of others.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO HAVE IN YOUR CELL PHONE:

Campus Police – 973-353-5111 (emergencies)

Campus Switchboard (between 9-4 pm) – 973-353-5581

Threat Assessment Team – Office of Chancellor 973-353-5541

Judicial Affairs – 973-353-5300

Counseling Center – 973-353-5805

Health Services – 973-353-5231