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RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — A new, charter-operated pilot program for struggling traditional elementary schools is now making its way through the Senate after passing the House earlier this month.
The bill creating an Achievement School District received initial Senate approval Monday night.
The proposal directs a superintendent appointed by the State Board of Education to choose charter operators with proven successful records to run five schools. The charter firm would have hiring and firing powers and be exempt from state requirements such as oversight and evaluations from local school boards.
Supporters say the bill is an innovative attempt to better serve children in schools that aren't making the grade academically. Some Democratic senators attempted to exempt their counties from the bill it called a charter school takeover that snatches power from local school governance.
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