"We're struggling vitally at Saratoga High School with some issues of academic integrity," said Saratoga High School Principal Dr. Kevin Skelly.

The first problem last spring included a group of students who allegedly used a small computer device which records keystrokes—known as a KeyKatcher—to obtain the password from a teacher's computer. They were then able to steal exams and answers from the English Department which were circulated among other students, Skelly said.

"We're going to be changing all of the passwords and updating them more often," Skelly said. "We're also going to be looking out for KeyKatchers now that we know they exist. And teachers will have to make up new materials, study guides and tests. It's a tremendous drain on the teachers."

Another math student broke into a school computer more recently, Skelly said, and attempted to change a grade, while two other students took a printed test out of a classroom and made copies. The students were caught via an anonymous survey probing students for information about cheating on campus. Skelly refused to comment about whether these above-average 11th grade culprits have a past history of cheating.

Steve Lopez, Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District director of educational services, said the expulsion hearing for the four students is set for the district board's Feb. 3 meeting, contingent upon the families of those students not requesting that the hearing date be extended. This portion of the meeting will be closed to the public.

"This isn't something that involves a large percentage of our kids. It's maybe 1 percent," said Skelly, adding this is an opportunity for the entire school to learn from the occurrence.

To combat the rumors and explain why these students are facing expulsion, Skelly said a community meeting—open to parents, students, teachers, administrators and the general public—will be held Jan. 29 at 7:30 p.m. in the school library, 20300 Herriman Ave., in Saratoga.