An Accident Waiting to Happen (Again)

I have visited several charter schools in the past few weeks.  One thing that multiple school leaders have told me is that they are surprised at the lack of controls on the administration of the state tests.  Apparently, the tests are self-administered without independent monitors and, therefore, it would be easy to cheat. 

Although the tests are self-administered, they are graded by panels of teachers from other schools.  Apparently, graders occasionally find suspicious tests, but they don't sense much institutional willingness or ability to pursue these matters.

There is a current investigation for alleged cheating at Ross Global Academy in early 2008.  Will there be more problems coming?  In the very least, the DOE should position one independent monitor at each school on testing days.