Guidance on Managing Student Conduct in the Classroom
To FSC Faculty:
Farmingdale State College remains committed to fostering an academic environment where
both teaching and learning can occur effectively and respectfully. As outlined in
the Disruptive Student Policy found in the FSC Faculty Professional Responsibilities, instructors have the responsibility to maintain an effective learning environment
in their classrooms and to deal promptly with any disruptions that interfere with
this environment. Faculty have the right to teach, and students have the right to
learn; no one student can be permitted to infringe upon these rights. Additionally,
the College has a Student Code of Conduct which establishes standards of behavior consistent with College values, and students
are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that respects others, complies with
policy, and upholds the good name of the College.
A faculty member, in reasonably discharging this responsibility and acting in accordance
with College guidelines on disruptive students in the classroom, shall receive the
full support and, when necessary, legal protection of the College.
Following are guidelines and policies for addressing disruptive behavior, recognizing
"concerning" behavior, and campus support services to assist in managing these situations.
Responding to Disruptive Behavior
If a student is disruptive in class, the instructor should request that the student
stop the questionable behavior. If the behavior does not stop, the instructor has
the responsibility to remove, without using physical force, the student from the classroom. Upon request of the instructor, the student must
immediately leave. If the student refuses to leave or if there is a concern for the
safety of others, the instructor should either dismiss the class or contact University Police, depending on the gravity of the situation.
When a student is removed from a class for the first time, it shall be for that class period only. Please note: Instructors do not have the authority to permanently ban a student from class. The
instructor must submit a written report of the incident to the Office of the Dean of Students via the Student Concerns Portal, with copies to the School Dean, Department Chair, and the student’s Curriculum Chair.
If University Police were contacted, the instructor must also notify the Office of
the Dean of Students immediately.
The Vice President for Student Affairs/designee will issue a summary statement of
the report to the student, along with a warning of potential consequences for future
incidents. Any subsequent report involving the same student will result in appropriate
administrative or disciplinary action, which may include denying the student further
access to the class or, in serious cases, dismissal from the College. Should the student
present an immediate threat to the campus or a major disruption to the campus environment,
the Vice President for Student Affairs/designee may issue an interim suspension from
the College pending the outcome of a judicial hearing. The Vice President for Student
Affairs/designee will communicate as much as possible with the reporting faculty member,
but due to FERPA some information may not be able to be disclosed.
Addressing Concerning (Non-Disruptive) Behavior
Students who are not violating policy, but are exhibiting concerning behaviors should be referred to the Students of Concern Committee (SCC). The SCC is a multidisciplinary team focused on early intervention for students who
may be at risk of harming themselves or others, or whose behavior poses significant
disruption to the College environment. Faculty may submit a report online through
the Concerning Behavior Referral Form.
The SCC reviews each report to develop a coordinated response plan that supports student
well-being and campus safety. This process does not replace standard classroom management or disciplinary procedures but provides an avenue for early identification and support of students in distress.
Reporting a student to the SCC should not be considered as punitive.
Campus Support Resources
Faculty who observe students exhibiting academic, physical, or emotional distress
should be aware that these may be warning signs of a deeper issue. FSC offers multiple
resources, including Campus Mental Health Services, Center for Academic Success & Tutoring (CAST), Health and Wellness Center, Office of the Dean of Students and University Police, which are available to assist in managing both disruptive and concerning situations.
Your role as faculty is vital in maintaining a safe, respectful, and productive classroom
environment. Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and your partnership
in upholding the College’s standards and values.
Ronald Jackson, EdD
Vice President for Student Affairs
