New Texas Education Commissioner Michael Williams has asked for a state audit over why the agency failed to uncover an El Paso schools cheating scandal.
State Auditor John Keel on Thursday responded by saying the request to audit the Texas Education Agency will be considered but not until fiscal 2014. The El Paso Times reported Friday that Keel cited staffing and schedule issues.
Gov. Rick Perry in September appointed Williams to succeed Robert Scott, who resigned. Williams in October visited El Paso and warned of possible harsh sanctions if the district doesn't find and punish those responsible for testing fraud.
Ex-superintendent Lorenzo Garcia pleaded guilty to fraud and in October was sentenced to more than three years in prison. Investigators say the conspiracy involved removing low-performing students from classrooms.
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Information from: El Paso Times, http://www.elpasotimes.com
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.