(Atlanta Journal Constitution) — A sweeping subpoena shows a criminal investigation has begun in earnest involving test tampering at Atlanta public schools and that former Superintendent Beverly Hall could be a target, lawyers said Tuesday. The subpoena, issued by a Fulton County grand jury, seeks comprehensive information dating back to 1999 regarding teacher transfers and demotions, bonuses paid to employees for improved test scores and copies of complaints from parents, teachers or students of possible improprieties related to Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests. The subpoena also seeks signed copies of “any and all oaths of office” taken by Hall when she was superintendent. ”It’s the first shot across the bow,” criminal defense attorney Jack Martin said. “This is a clear indication they are looking at criminal charges and that prosecutors are using the grand jury to get the records that could provide circumstantial evidence to support the investigation.”
