You became a teacher to inspire and educate — not to manage potential violence. But the reality of modern classrooms sometimes includes students in crisis who may pose a threat to themselves or others.
This isn't about treating every struggling student as dangerous. It's about recognizing the signs that a situation is escalating and knowing how to protect yourself and your other students.
Warning Signs
Sudden behavioral changes. Withdrawal, aggression, or erratic behavior that's out of character.
Verbal threats. Even "jokes" about violence should be taken seriously and documented.
Fixation. Obsessive interest in violence, weapons, or past incidents.
Physical cues. Clenched fists, invasion of personal space, pacing, inability to sit still.
Trust your instincts.
Document everything.
In the Moment
Stay calm. Your calm can be contagious. Your panic definitely will be.
Lower the stakes. "Let's step outside and talk" removes audience pressure.
Don't corner them. Always leave them a way out. A cornered person is more dangerous.
Know when to evacuate. If a student becomes violent, your job is to get the other students out — not to physically intervene.
Documentation
Document incidents immediately, with specific quotes and behaviors. This protects you legally and creates a record that can help the student get appropriate support.
You have the right to remove yourself from a dangerous situation. You have the right to request that a threatening student be removed from your classroom. Use these rights.
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