February 25, 2026

This message is distributed to All Instructors, Academic Department Chairs & Deans, Academic Assistant Deans, Academic Business Officers & ASC Directors. (Click here to view description of distribution groups.)  

The following is being sent on behalf of Linda Adler-Kassner and Michael Miller

From: Linda Adler-Kassner, Associate Vice Chancellor, Teaching and Learning
          Michael Miller, Associate Vice Chancellor, Undergraduate Education

Responding to Classroom Disruptions

A “disruption” is an unplanned interruption of instructional activities during class time. Disruptions can be intentional or unintentional. They are unsettling for everyone.

Here are some suggestions:

FIRST: Be Calm.

  • Students will look at your reaction to gauge their response.
  • Breathe and maintain composure. Speak in a calm, confident voice.

NEXT: Assess the situation.

  • Determine the nature and scope of the disruption.
  • If appropriate, calmly and politely ask the individual to leave.
  • Maintain a distance of at least three feet from the disruptor(s).
  • Avoid saying “calm down” or being moralistic.
  • If the person does not leave, ask the class to leave and follow students as they depart.

FINALLY: Follow up with students.

  • After the incident, follow up with students in the classroom or by email. You might:
  • Create space to calm down and recenter;
  • Talk about the incident with students (if you feel comfortable);
  • Provide resources such as those included in Student Mental Health’s Red Folder.

Please see the Strategies for Responding to Class Disruptions guidance for additional information.

 

Disruptions by students are a violation of the UC systemwide Policies Applying to Campus Activities, Organizations and Students (PACAOS), which states:  "Obstruction or disruption of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary procedures, or other University activities" is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Violations can be reported to the Office of Student Conduct.

This guidance does not address situations in which you or students are in danger. In that case, call or text 911 immediately, and exit the room if it is safe to do so. For guidance related to classroom safety, please refer to the Classroom Emergency Preparedness guidelines.