Pinecrest High School students will not be penalized for a testing irregularity that invalidated their scores on an Algebra I end-of-course (EOC) examination.

As students took the test this past May, they noticed some of the questions were identical to those that appeared in a study guide they had used. They told their teachers, who in turn notified Principal Joel County. He immediately reported the matter to the central office and the N.C. Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). About 350 students took the exam.

"We regret this occurrence," County said in a statement. "However, our focus is on ensuring that this type of situation does not happen again. The situation has been investigated, although we have not determined the source of the guide.

"Unfortunately, it was not until after the test was administered that we became aware that the study guide mirrored the actual test. I commend our students for reporting their concerns and our teachers for their prompt response to this situation."

Fortunately for the students, the invalidation of the scores will not negatively affect them in any way. When NCDPI decides to invalidate an EOC assessment, it is simply removed from the student's and the school's record.

Without the assessment as a part of the student's record, it is then the principal's determination whether or not a student has successfully completed the course and met the exit standard.

"In reviewing each student's academic performance in Algebra I last year, no student has been negatively impacted as a result of this unfortunate occurrence," County said.

According to a news release from the school system, the EOC accounts for 25 percent of the student's final grade in the course and serves as the Algebra I exit standard for graduation.

This particular exam was administered after the fall and spring semesters last year, but the problem was not discovered until after the spring examination.

County addressed last year's Algebra I students during a meeting Wednesday to explain the situation and answer questions. The school also sent a letter home to parents to inform them of what happened, which assured them that their children would not be negatively impacted by the voided results. School system spokesman Tim Lussier said a ConnectED phone message would be used to alert parents to the letter.

Algebra I is one the basic courses required for high school graduation.

Contact John Krahnert III at 693-2473 or by e-mail at jkrahnert@thepilot.com