However, schools investigator Edward Stancik did not criticise the increased emphasis on test scores, it said.

BBC: Papers criticise 'NYC exam scam'

The newspaper also focused on personality clashes between Mr Stancik and Schools Chancellor Rudy Crew, which have exploded in the past.

BBC: Papers criticise 'NYC exam scam'

It says Mr Stancik has been accused of being "a clever manipulator of the news media, more interested in sex crimes and sexy headlines than in the fundamental work of education".

BBC: Papers criticise 'NYC exam scam'

In October 1997, after Stancik released a scathing investigation on gangs, a furious Dr Crew accused him of sending "panic through the system" by "overplaying and dramatization" - and demanded his resignation.

BBC: Papers criticise 'NYC exam scam'