Senate Passes Bill Requiring Accountability for Educators Who Falsify Test Scores

ATLANTA (March 26, 2012) – The Georgia Senate passed HB 692 today by a vote of 52 to 0.  Sponsored by Rep. Billy Mitchell in the House and carried in the Senate by Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell), this legislation outlines a greater measure of accountability standards for teachers found guilty of falsifying student assessment results.

Under this legislation, if a teacher knowingly falsifies student assessment results or standardized test scores, and as a result, receives a bonus or salary increase, then the teacher is automatically required to forfeit and repay all bonus money.

“The General Assembly recognizes and supports the hard work and commitment of educators across the state,” said Sen. Albers.  “Although the vast majority of Georgia’s teachers are dedicated to maintaining the highest level of integrity in the classroom, there are a small few who have abused the system and should be held accountable for their actions. This bill simply ensures educators are teaching for educational benefit and not for financial gain.”

At present, teachers are eligible to receive a salary increase or bonus when students perform well on standardized test such as the Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests (CRCT) or the End of Course Tests (EOCT). Last summer, the Georgia Department of Education and local school districts spent time investigating several alleged cases of cheating and/or test score manipulation throughout the state. If signed into law, this legislation would provide a greater measure of accountability for Georgia’s educators.

HB 692 will now travel to the Governor’s desk for final approval.

RELEASE
March 26, 2012

For Information Contact:
Natalie Dale, Director
Shawna Mercer,Sr. Communications Specialist
shawna.mercer@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028