Broken Discipline Tracking Systems Let Teachers Flee Troubled Pasts
Data Journalism
About the Entry
Using millions of teachers’ records from all 50 states, this yearlong investigation revealed the broken state-by-state system that sometimes allowed teachers with histories of misconduct back in the classroom.
- Broken discipline tracking systems let teachers flee troubled pasts
- Video: How troubled teachers cheat the system
- Nation’s disciplined teacher data to be audited state by state
- States look to mend gaps in teacher screening systems
- How USA TODAY audited the country’s broken systems for tracking teacher discipline
Entry Credit
- John Kelly, Data and Investigations Editor, USA TODAY Network
- Nick Penzenstadler, Investigative Reporter, USA TODAY Network
- Steve Reilly, Investigative Reporter, USA TODAY Network
Comments from the Judges
“This package of stories served a vital public service. Taking advantage of USA Today’s vast reach, the series perfectly meshed local and national reporting to produce a powerful series of stories. ”
“Excellent reporting and data/graphic elements. The reporters did an excellent job tracking down teachers who were fired from one district and ended up in another — unnoticed. It’s chilling. Extremely important story.”
