EAST TEXAS (KLTV) – Three East Texas educators are under investigation by the state.
Across the state, the Texas Education Agency is investigating a teacher certification scheme. The investigation involves an alleged cheating ring, where teachers paid others to take certification tests on their behalf.
About 160 teachers across the state are being investigated, with dozens of cases listed as pending. That list includes three educators, one from Palestine ISD, another from Lufkin ISD and a third from Carthage ISD.
Carthage ISD public relations issued a statement, saying, “Carthage ISD was notified by the Texas Education Agency on Tuesday that a district employee is under investigation in connection with an alleged testing scheme. While we cannot discuss personnel matters, we are fully cooperating with TEA and will follow all applicable state regulations and district policy.”
We’ve reached out to Lufkin ISD and Palestine ISD and haven’t heard back at this time.
State prosecutors say organizers of the ring may have made a million dollars. Those accused of cheating likely got promotions, higher salaries or kept their jobs as part of the scandal. It’s believed to have been going on since 2020, with as many as 400 taking part.
We have the full list of those under investigation here.
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