Teachers may encounter situations in which they need to respond to challenging student behaviors in virtual learning environments. Challenging behaviors are normal in new and stressful situations. While it is essential for teachers to maintain a safe and supportive virtual learning environment for all students, challenging behaviors also present an opportunity for teachers to respond to the underlying feelings and needs communicated through these behaviors.
Many challenging behaviors can be prevented by taking the time to re-establish positive relationships with your students by checking in and talking about topics unrelated to academic learning. Structure opportunities for students to connect with their classmates, as well. As you ease back into learning, take the time to establish classroom agreements and expectations for the remote learning environment. Resources for all of these proactive steps can be found on our Building Community page.
The Chicago Public Schools Student Code of Conduct is in effect during this period of remote learning.
Google Meets & Google Livestream
Students whose behavior is disrupting a Google Meets or Google Livestream should be reminded of the class agreements and expectations for the platform and given the opportunity to correct their behavior. If a student's behavior continues or is unsafe, the student can be muted or, as a last resort, removed from the meeting. See: Pin, mute, or remove Hangouts Meet participants.
Google Classroom
Inappropriate posts on Google Classroom can be deleted so that students are unable to see them. Teachers are still able to see deleted posts as needed to share with administrators and parents. If necessary, students can also be muted on the Stream Page. See: Set student permissions to post and comment.
Following Up
If challenging behavior occurs on any online platform, follow up with the student and their parent after the meeting. While the CPS Acceptable Use Policy prohibits one-on-one online meetings with students, you may schedule a Google Meets hangout with the student and the student's parent or another staff member. You may also call the student's parent contact and speak to the student with the parent or guardian's permission.
Restorative Practices can be used to repair harm caused by the student's behavior, identify the root cause of the behavior, and develop a plan to support the needs of students who have experienced or caused harm. Some helpful tools from the CPS Restorative Practices Guide and Toolkit include:
Restorative Conversations (When only one student is involved, or in preparation for a peace circle)
Peace Circles p.84-90 (When multiple students are involved, or when a facilitator is mediating a conflict/harm between a teacher and student)
Logical Consequences in Restorative Practices
Any report of bullying or harassment should immediately be reported to either:
The principal or school administrator, or
The CPS Office of Student Protections and Title IX Mainline at 773-535-4400 osp@cps.edu. If possible, a copy of the communication should be shown or provided;
Once notified, the school principal/administrator should activate and follow the bullying investigation timeline and protocol (see CPS Anti-Bullying Policy).
The incident and investigation should be documented in Aspen.