Nationwide — Kashaundra Knowles, an African American woman from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was arrested for allegedly taking teacher certification exams for other people in exchange for money. Officials said she charged about $1,000 per test and now faces multiple fraud-related charges.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and state education officials announced the arrest during a news briefing in Fort Lauderdale. They said the case involves a broader investigation into fake test-taking tied to professional teaching credentials.
“This might seem like, to some people, this is not a big deal, but it is because at the end of the day, this hurts our kids,” Uthmeier said, according to CBS12.
Investigators said Knowles allegedly took certification exams on behalf of multiple individuals, including people seeking teaching jobs in Florida schools. So far, authorities have identified at least eight or nine people connected to the scheme, with more possible cases still under review.
Prosecutors said she recruited clients through Facebook and Instagram. She allegedly offered to take exams for payment and then used other people’s identification to get through testing centers.
Officials also said she changed her appearance to match the person she was impersonating, including switching hairstyles, clothing, and makeup. In some cases, she reportedly tried to closely resemble test takers to avoid detection during identity checks.
In one instance, authorities said she dressed as a man while taking an elementary education exam. Investigators believe these actions were part of a repeated pattern meant to bypass security protocols at testing sites.
The alleged activity stretched across several Florida counties, including Broward, Palm Beach, and Volusia. According to an affidavit, the scheme may have started as early as 2024 and could involve additional locations as the investigation expands.
Knowles was arrested on June 11, 2026, with assistance from the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Officials said the arrest followed months of monitoring suspicious testing activity linked to certification exams.
Uthmeier said Knowles faces charges including an organized scheme to defraud and offenses tied to using electronic communications in criminal activity. Prosecutors added that more charges could be filed as the case develops.
State Education Commissioner Stassi Kamoutsas said Florida’s certification system depends on trust and strict screening standards. She said educators must fully qualify before entering classrooms.
Officials said anyone found to have obtained certification through fraud will face review. Some applicants could be denied, while current certificate holders may go through disciplinary hearings that could lead to license revocation.
School districts were also advised that they can take their own action if employment records suggest a teacher’s certification was obtained dishonestly. That process could move alongside state investigations.
Uthmeier also warned others involved in the scheme to come forward. “If you’re one of these teachers that has fraudulently gotten your certification, just go ahead and bring yourself in,” he said. “The music’s stopped.”
Authorities said the investigation is still active, with more test sessions and possible victims under review.