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Board Approves Gloucester Charter School

The state board of education has narrowly approved a new charter school for Gloucester that was opposed by city officials who said they were concerned about the cost.

Education commissioner Mitchell Chester had recommended approval of the the Gloucester Community Arts Charter School. On Tuesday, the board voted 6-5 in favor after hearing testimony from opponents and supporters of the project.

Gloucester Mayor Carolyn Kirk said the city is concerned the new school would create an elite school for some students at the expense of others.

Proponents of the school, for grades 4 through 7, say they want it to be a model that could help the entire school system achieve its academic goals.

The school is scheduled to open in the fall of 2010, if it gets expected state funding, but could be delayed until 2011.

This program aired on February 24, 2009. The audio for this program is not available.

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