Federal prosecutors in Memphis are investigating an educator who they say ran a test cheating ring in three Southern states for teachers and prospective teachers who wanted to pass standardized certification exams.
Clarence Mumford Sr.
The United States attorney’s office has indicted Clarence Mumford Sr., 58, on 49 counts, including mail, wire and Social Security fraud as well as identify theft.
According to court documents, Mr. Mumford, a former assistant principal and guidance counselor, helped create fake government identification for test takers, and collected fees ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 from individuals who were concerned about passing tests administered by the Educational Testing Service in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee.
The tests, which are taken by people who want to obtain a teaching license or to acquire additional credentials in a specific subject, are known as Praxis exams. They are a requirement for obtaining teaching certifications in 37 states, according to the E.T.S.
Edward L. Stanton III, the United States attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, said Mr. Mumford had operated the testing ring since 1995 through at least March 2010. Mr. Mumford retired from the Memphis City Schools that year after a 23-year career with the district.
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