Our Elizabeth Town Beginnings!!

Hello Elizabeth Town friends!!

We are a group of senior elementary education majors here at the University of Southern Mississippi. 

From left to right we are: Adrianne, Amber (standing), Amanda, Alexandria, and Lauren.

Adrianne would like to teach older middle school math or science. She is open to teach in Hattiesburg or Jackson.

Amber is currently working on her second degree and wants to teach upper elementary.

Amanda is dual in elementary and special education and would like to teach upper elementary inclusion somewhere in the area of Hattiesburg.

Alexandria is also a dual major and would like to teach any elementary grades in Hattiesburg either regular or special education.

Lauren would like to teach in the Pearl River County area grades K-2.

We have some particular "teaching issues" that we would like to address but specifically "How to deal with an arrogant-appearing student?" 

• The situation's context begins with a few of us as practicum students observing a  sixth grader who does not pay attention in his math class. In trying to assist him, he has continuously gives smart aleck remarks and repeatedly says, "I'm just a country boy. All I like to do is go mud riding."  The classroom teacher seems to be used to these remarks and, even in frustration, overlooks them. With his influential demeanor, he attracts many of his peers who seem afraid to not follow his lead. 

Question: What are some various ways that YOU would handle this situation to encourage him to change his actions and engage more in learning?