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DETROIT (AP) — Mayor Mike Duggan is asking teachers to end sick-outs that have closed dozens of Detroit public schools.
Duggan says Monday in a release that he understands "teachers' frustration," but Detroit children need them "in the classroom."
The district says it closed 64 schools Monday due to teacher absences. Several schools also were closed last week.
Many teachers are dissatisfied with their pay and the district's poor finances. The teachers' union also complained Monday about rodent infestations, mold, overcrowded classrooms and other problems in school buildings.
Duggan says he plans to visit schools Tuesday to make sure the district is complying with city health and building codes.
The debt-ridden district of about 46,000 students has been under continuous state control for nearly seven years and is run by an emergency manager.
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