Staff Guidelines

Administration and staff in administrative and academic areas may have regular contact with students. It is important to maintain professionalism and decorum in these offices. If a student is disruptive, it is important for the staff member to remain calm and let the student know that they want to help, but cannot if their disruptive behavior.

Staff members should have a plan on how to handle students who are disruptive and/or disrespectful. Know what your personal “break points” are and when you need someone else to intervene in the situation. Are there other staff members who are especially good at diffusing situations? Is there a time to call in a supervisor to resolve the issue? Would it be better for the student to schedule an appointment to come back when they are calm and you have had the opportunity to learn more about their concern (if they are looking for a solution) and can properly address those questions? Having a plan in place may help prevent disruptions from escalating.

If there is an immediate danger or threat to safety, call the University Police immediately at 7-4215 or 911. They will respond to the situation as described by the staff member. The staff member may also document the incident and refer the student(s) to the Office of Student Judicial Programs. The office will then contact the staff member for any follow up and meet with the student to discuss and resolve the issue.