SAU16 Teacher On Leave Over Standardized Testing Allegations

EXETER, NH — Officials at SAU16 are investigating a Newfields Elementary School teacher who was reportedly providing correct answers to students during standardized testing. The teacher is currently on leave, pending the investigation. School officials say the teacher was helping fourth-grade students during the New Hampshire Statewide Assessment System in English Language Arts.

"Today it was reported to me that during SAS ELA testing at Newfields Elementary School yesterday, a teacher administering the test allegedly instructed and coached students during the exam," said SAU16 Superintendent David Ryan in a statement Friday. "The report includes the allegation that the teacher provided the correct answers to certain questions. If true, this would be a serious violation of the rules governing education and testing in New Hampshire."

The teacher's name is not being released at this time due to legal reasons, and because it is a personnel matter, said Ryan.

"I immediately notified the New Hampshire Department of Education and have placed the teacher on paid administrative leave, pending the outcome of the state's investigation and our own internal investigation into this matter," said Ryan. "We appreciate the Newfields community's patience and understanding as we investigate. At this time, we have no reason to believe that the allegations extend beyond the actions of one teacher."