Dive Brief:

• Four teachers at Houston's Jefferson Elementary School have agreed to a generous resignation package after being accused of cheating on a state test last spring.  
• The Houston Independent School District board has approved severance packages that include a full year's pay.  
• Suspiciously high-test scores and student statements led the superintendent to recommend the teachers' termination due to their alleged assistance on last year's state tests.

Dive Insight:

While the principal alleges the teachers gave extra help and assistance on a high-stakes exam, the teachers contend the students are confusing a practice exam with the actual test. While the incident did take place as at an elementary school, this is still somewhat difficult to believe. Additionally, even during practice exams, teachers should be replicating the testing environment and therefore staying mum.  

While five teachers were initially accused in the matter, one of them was offered, and ultimately accepted, another teaching position, making them ineligible for the severance.