Classroom observation and "troublemakers"

 In my 3rd grade class observation at Carnevale Elementary, one student of Hispanic ethnicity comes to mind as a "troublemaker". I'll refer to him as Josh. On my first observation, he was actually one of the first students I worked with in a small group. He was working through a math assignment and was very analytical on acquiring the correct answers. After students finished the math assignment, the class sat on floor for a read aloud with the teacher assistant who is of white ethnicity (as well as the main teacher). Both the teacher and t.a. promote a positive atmosphere for the class. Josh voluntarily sat in front of the rest of the class next to the teacher assistant as she read the book to the class. As the t.a. elaborated on the pages being read, she allowed students to be engaged by asking questions and sharing comments. Josh would occasionally mock some students who responded, right next to the t.a.! The t.a. would immediately point out and correct his behavior subtly in a few words. From what I remember, the main teacher had to step in and recognize Josh's behavior to help him refocus.