Educators in some districts throughout Ohio may be teaching more than reading, writing, and arithmetic to prepare students for state achievement tests. Some kids may also be getting a crash course in Cheating 101. As reported in several newspapers, teachers in eleven districts are under investigation by the Ohio Department of Education for providing students with test questions or other materials before administering this year's achievement tests. If these allegations are true, it could lead to the invalidation of test scores in some classrooms. At best, students would have to retake the test; at worst, they could possibly be denied a chance at higher education. Who is cheating whom? Rather than embracing accountability, educators who willingly participate in cheating are leading the race to the bottom. Thankfully, they remain the exception, not the rule. Let's hope these allegations are unfounded.
"Cheating on tests alleged: Cincinnati Schools among 11 accused," by Jennifer Mrozowski, The Cincinnati Enquirer, March 16, 2006
"Test violation cheat Ohio students," The Cincinnati Enquirer, March 17, 2006
"Teacher Accused of Cheating," Ohio News Network, March 29, 2006
