Thousands March for Charter Schools

Thousands of supporters of parents, teachers and kids demonstrated on Tuesday morning in support of charter schools in the wake of front-running mayoral candidate Bill de Blasio’s tepid support of charters and his idea to charge them rent for using space in traditional public schools.

The swarm of demonstrators wearing neon green T-shirts with the words, “My Child, My Choice” and “Charter Schools are Public Schools” marched from Cadman Plaza across the Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall.

Organizers said the demonstrators numbered some 20,000 participants. representing 70 schools. Other observers estimated a lower number.

Republican mayoral hopeful Joe Lhota joined the demonstrators at City Hall to show his support. “This movement is helping to uplift people and make sure that children get the proper education,” said Lhota.He vowed to double the number of charter school, if elected.

Most demonstrators agreed.

“I want the next mayor to place charter schools in the budget,” said Vilma Fermin, a mother of two children.

Charter schools are the alternative institutions, publicly funded privately operated. Some 70,000 kids attending the 183 charter schools.

“I have yet to meet a parent that wants their kid to attend a failing school,” said Andrea Scotting, a parent of two children attending the Success Academy Cobble Hill. “Joe seems to be the only candidate that can separate the two.”

“Bill de Blasio believes charter schools have a role to play, but he won’t favor them over traditional public schools,” said a representative of de Blasio’s campaign.

The Democratic candidate himself said, “I believe the current cap on charters is sufficient…I won’t favor charter schools.”

“It is an arduous but necessary task to march,” said Crystal Buxtin, a mother of four children attending charter schools. “I march today to protect my choice.”