Which Way, L.A.?
LAUSD Votes to Shut Down Two Aspire Charter Schools
Superintendent Deasy called their record of improving student performance " unassailable." But the LA School Board voted to close two charter schools anyway.
By Warren Olney • • 23m ListenSuperintendent John Deasy called their record of improving the performance of poor, Latino students "unquestionable and unassailable." But the LA School Board voted to close two charter schools anyway. One dissenter reportedly said, "This disgusts me." We hear about special education, money and politics at LA Unified. Also, Birmingham roller pigeons that turn backward somersaults in the air. Some breeders are former LA gang members.
Later on To the Point, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel wants to cut the Pentagon budget, but the stocks of many defense contractors are going up. We hear what Hagel's proposing, what it means for national security and the likely response from Congress.
Banner image courtesy of Aspire Public Schools
In this episode
2 storiesCharter Schools on the Chopping Block
Two charter schools run by a company called Aspire serve more than 770 students in southeast Los Angeles. More than 90% of the kids are poor enough to qualify for lunch programs; about half are not fluent in English, often a formula for low performance.
Read the story18 minThe Growing Passion for Flying Birmingham Roller Pigeons
Birmingham roller pigeons were first bred in England in the 1800's. Now the sport has its own world cup. About one third of America's 5000 breeders live in Southern California, including some former gang members. Jens Gould of KCRW's Independent Producer Project has more.
Read the story5 min
