Two Colorado Springs teachers may have shared test information with students

Harrison School District Two says 2 Stratton Meadows Elementary teachers have been placed on paid administrative leave.

The Colorado Department of Education is investigating whether the teachers shared detailed state testing information with students.

The teachers were removed from the school on Tuesday after the district received a tip from a parent. Harrison School District 2 spokesperson Christine Lyle says a parent complained about “a potential sharing of inappropriate information” regarding standardized testing.

Lyle says it is common for teachers to practice state testing with students to prepare. Investigators are trying to determine if the teachers were simply practicing, or if they shared details they shouldn’t have.

“It’s honestly surprising. This is what we pay the schools for, to teach our kids, not give them the answers. My son is supposed to start there next year, so I’m glad they’re investigating,” said Amber Sawyer, a concerned mother.

Lyle says the school district immediately contacted the Colorado Department of Education.

A teacher who used to work at Stratton Meadows tells KRDO that teachers have been cheating. She says two teachers were giving their students clues and even answers during state standardized tests. The teacher doesn’t want to go on camera for fear of losing her job.

“I would be so upset that a teacher would do something like that, give their students answers, just to better themselves and the school,” said Ashley Fuller, who has a daughter attending the elementary school.

District 2 is the only pay for performance district in Colorado Springs. That means teachers within the district may be paid more if their students get good grades.

The state department of education will not comment on the pending investigation.