For fun, I decided to run this scenario past my two DC.

Both kids said the child was just trying to explain himself, and not being disrespectful on purpose.

DD11 says: He should just say I'm sorry and sit down and never correct an adult because adults don't like to be wrong.

DS12 says: He shouldn't try to explain himself and should just shut up.

As an aside, reading my above post, DS said "because teachers don't act like that" in re: my question about why the adult couldn't just easily move on.

He also is perplexed by the flashing envelope, even though I have no new PMs.

Thought it would be fun to share a kid perspective. laugh