DISRUPTIVE STUDENTS

Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom

Disruptive behavior is behavior that interferes with the instruction of classroom activities, including any behavior that disrupts or intimidates others within the classroom. Disruptive behavior in the classroom is covered in the Student Conduct Code and may include, but is not limited to; WAC 132J-126-090 (27) Classroom conduct.

In order to address disruptive behavior in the classroom, it is important to set expectations for proper classroom behavior at the beginning of the semester.  Specific expectations may be included in the course syllabus.  It is also important to inform students that disruptive behavior is not acceptable and will be referred to the Judicial Affairs office.

The following list outlines recommended actions you can take in addressing disruptive behavior.

  1. When disruptive behavior occurs within the classroom, it is best to address the entire class, rather than the individual student. In doing so, the instructor should remind the class of the expectations set out in the syllabus.
  2. If a specific student needs to be addressed regarding their disruptive behavior, it should be done after class. If a student's behavior needs to be addressed during class, ask the student to stop their current behavior and to speak with you after class, or during office hours.
  3. When discussing the behavior with the student, you should inform the student of the specific behavior that is being addressed.  In addition, you should remind the student of the classroom expectations, as well as the expectations for future classroom behavior.
  4. After meeting with the student, you should follow up with an e-mail regarding the incident, as well as the information discussed during the meeting. You may also share this information with your division chair, or the dean of your division. In addition, it is helpful to document any incidents regarding disruptive behavior in the event that the behavior continues.
  5. If the behavior continues after it has been addressed, you may refer the student to the Judicial Affairs office. For more information on how to refer a student to the Judicial Affairs office, please click HERE for the “Refer a Student” link.

Your Rights as a Faculty/Instructor

Under the Student Conduct Code, WAC 132J-126-090 (27) Classroom conduct, an instructor has the authority to apply disciplinary action to a student that is being disruptive. 

As defined WAC 132J-126-090 (27) Classroom conduct states: Any student who significantly disrupts any college class and makes it unreasonably difficult to conduct the class in an orderly manner shall be subject to disciplinary action. An instructor/faculty member may impose any of the following actions for classroom conduct:

  1. Warning: An oral or written notice to a student that college and/or classroom expectations about conduct have not been met.
  2. Reprimand: A written notice which censures a student for improper conduct and includes a warning that continuation or repetition of improper conduct shall result in further disciplinary action.
  3. Summary suspension for a maximum of two days.

As defined in WAC 132J-126-230.

At any time, severe misconduct or continued misconduct shall be just cause for the matter to be forwarded immediately to the Judicial Affairs office for further action. Reporting of the incident should also include Campus Safety.

If the student persists in the behavior, please contact your dean and report the matter immediately to Campus Safety. 

Campus Safety Phone: (253) 833-9111 x3350 Email: safetydispatch@greenriver.edu