Case
Cheating Student

I have this student whom I have caught cheating twice now. When I called her mother to discuss it she told me that her child never lied to her and told her that she did not cheat. The mother then preceded to ask me if I could be wrong about her daughter cheating. I explained the first time that I caught her motioning for answers from the student who sits behind her and that she even turned and asked for answers. During the second cheating incident, the student had a piece of paper with answers written on it between her legs. She had the piece of paper balled up in her hand when she turned in her quiz. I explained each situation to the parent and she continued to say I was wrong that her child would never cheat. The student has not tried to cheat again, but my fear/worry is if I catch her again that I am not sure how to approach it with the mother. The mother it seems will not believe me no matter what I say or even show her. So, what would be the best way to handle this situation if it arises?

Posted on: 03/13/15 | Views: 1148
Solution #1
Top Solution
I would definitely document each time this happens making sure to include the date with a description of what happened. Also keep documentation of you speaking with the student about the instance as well as the parent. I would also make sure to let my administration know about the instance to ensure they have your back and make them aware of whether or not an angry parent may come to the school.

It sounds like the child is not going to have any consequences for this behavior at home. I would come up with a system to be sure that the cheating cannot happen again. Maybe have her take the test right next to your desk away from other students. I have also found it helpful to show the proof of the incident to the parent.

Thank you both. Every test since these incidents she has been seated right next to me so I can watch her. She has not tried anything yet.

I think having her test next to you is a smart idea. Hopefully she wont try anything again.

I agree with this solution.

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Solution #2
I am in the habit of making different versions of tests because I have had a rash of cheating incidents over the last few years. I would specifically give this student a version of the test that is different than everyone else. It could be as simple as rearranging the order of the questions or providing similar questions that have different answers. If she cheats off another student it will be obvious. You could also have students put all of their belongings at the front or back of the class so there are not as many places to hide notes, etc. Hopefully having her seated near you will also help.
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Solution #3
Address an administrator. Many schools have a zero tolerance policy for cheating.

I agree with this solution.

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Solution #4
I would try and document each time this happens. I would also try and keep the evidence you find about the child cheating. I think the parent may start to believe you if you have these things and also with you giving the student consequences for their actions.
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Solution #5
Your class obviously has a no cheating policy. Document the incidents of cheating and of you talking to the mother. Talk to your administration. If the student no longer cheats, great, but if she does, enforce the cheating policy. The mother will have to deal with it. If you have everything documented (keeping the cheat sheet that the student had would be a great start) the administration should surely support you.
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Solution #6
The administration should get involved. At my high school cheating would be placed on a students record or their future college could be involved
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Solution #7
I would make sure to document in detail the incidents and take them to a counselor. If the counselors are aware of the situation they will be more able to help address the un-acceptance of the parent. (Administration can be a big help in this area as well.) The counselors might have more insight as to why the parents refuse to accept the cheating or other issues that might be underlying.

Thank you for your help.

I agree with this solution.

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Solution #8
I think that one possible proof to show the student's mom could have been the piece of paper that the student had on the second quiz. I think it could be better if another teacher watch your class for the next time, so your will have another person on your side when speaking to the student mom.

I agree with this solution.

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Solution #9
You could have a class discussion about cheating to address the issue. During the discussion put in place consequences similar to a behavior chart if a student is caught cheating.

I agree with this solution.

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