Former Phila. School Principal Learns Her Sentence For Role In Cheating Scandal
By Mike DeNardo
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A former Philadelphia elementary school principal faces a long-term of probation for creating what prosecutors called a "culture of cheating" on standardized state tests.
Judge Timika Lane sentenced 61-year-old Evelyn Cortez to ten years probation and 100 hours of community service teaching literacy.
Cortez, the former principal at Cayuga Elementary School pleaded guilty in February to perjury, tampering with public records and conspiracy. She was one of five Cayuga educators charged in a wide-ranging state investigation into manipulated PSSA scores.
Deputy Attorney General Noel DeSantis argued for a long probation.
"This is a very clear message that cheating will not be tolerated. It'll be investigated and vigorously prosecuted, because children will always come first."
Defense attorney Brian McMonagle says Cortez has surrendered her teaching certificate - and will likely lose her pension. But he called it "a fair sentence for a good woman."
"She's already paid a tremendous price for this mistake. And I think she'll do more good in the community helping others than she could have ever done serving a jail sentence."
Three Cayuga teachers pleaded guilty or admitted their roles. One is awaiting sentencing, another is awaiting trial next month. Two other principals at other schools are awaiting trial.
