RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - North Carolina Republicans are working on expanding the number of charter schools in the face of Democratic complaints they could encourage classrooms more segregated by race and household income.
A state House committee on Thursday recommended legislation that would allow a rapid increase in the number of charter schools by adding up to 50 each year to the current statewide limit of 100. A vote by the full House was expected later Thursday.
Democrats complain that the plan would undercut public schools because the measure does not require the alternative schools to prevent segregation into majority white and minority schools. The House minority also says provisions allowing virtual charter schools have few guidelines.
Republicans have moderated an earlier stand by adding transportation and meal requirements for new charter schools.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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