De Blasio holds rally aimed at extending mayoral control of NYC schools

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Who should control New York City's schools? Mayor Bill de Blasio says he should be in charge, and now he's urging state lawmakers to extend mayoral control over the schools.

Mayor de Blasio and State Assembly Democrats face Senate Republicans playing a big bargaining chip - they want more charter schools threatening to pull support for mayoral control if they don't get it, and other concessions giving parents more alternatives.

Schools Chancellor Carmen Farina cited a stellar report card saying higher test scores and lower teacher vacancies. For that work to continue, the mayor needs more than a one-year-extension.

"We need stability. We are in charge, and we are accountable," Farina said.

"Mayor de Blasio has proven he's managed this system. Enough is enough," added City Comptroller Scott Stringer.

Reverting to the old system of local school boards would come at a huge price tag.

"1.6 billion dollars over the next 10 years," noted Mayor de Blasio.

The mayor control ends on June 30th - that's a week and a half away.

Albany leaves for summer vacation on Wednesday.