Here's the problem with your post, where is it you are hearing it's so widespread? Are you in education? Do you have some links that make it a nationwide phenomena? If not, you are leaving an implication that may well be wrong, though you believe it, albeit with nothing to back it up.
Quotes from earlier posts of mine...
"And for the record, I am in education...and have witnessed this first-hand."
My assumption that it's widespread (based on my personal experiences) is no more of an implication than your assumption (based on your experience) that it isn't wide-spread.
http://www.educationreport.org/pubs/mer/article.aspx?id=3907
"First, there is widespread anxiety about the use of tests as a basis for rewards and sanctions, for both schools and students. Schools fear the stigma of low scores, and the possible loss of state accreditation. Students worry about endorsed diplomas and the availability of scholarships if their test scores don't meet the standard"
http://www.nationalsummary.com/Articles/Education/education__more_cheating.htm
Another problem I see happening around the nation with standardized testing....this link is specifically about Texas, yet, I doubt Texas is the only culprit...