Practical Steps to Follow in Case of Classroom Disruption
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Develop a plan you will follow in case of a classroom disruption. The plan should be neutral to the content of the disruption. It may be helpful to prepare a script you will use to serve as a warning, perhaps facilitated by a slide you can project in class.
Sample script: The University-Wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities prohibits disruptions in class. If you do not end this disruption, you will be subject to disciplinary action through the Ad Board.
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Your plan may evolve if you know something specific in advance about a planned protest. In this case, you should work with the assistant dean for faculty affairs in your Divisional/SEAS Office to develop a plan.
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If your class is disrupted, stay calm. You are the leader of the class, and your students are looking to you for reassurance.
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If the disruption ends and the class is settled, continue teaching. If the situation does not de-escalate, you may consider moving to a different location. Alternatively, you can cancel class and make up the material in the future.
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If students stage a walk-out, you may choose to count it as an absence in accordance with your class’s stated attendance policy.
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Have HUPD’s number on your phone: (617) 495-1212. You can call them ahead of time for advice or if you become concerned about physical safety.
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You may refer disruptive students to the Administrative Board of the relevant School.
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If you feel upset after the event, your class may too. Your class may be upset even if you aren’t. Consider how you will support them. The Bok Center has resources that may be helpful.
- If your class is disrupted, moved or cancelled, follow up with plans to make up class time and missed material.
Office of Faculty Affairs, OUE, and HUPD