Backers of New York City charter schools hold rally

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Thousands of proponents of charter schools joined together Thursday for a rally against what they called New York City's failing schools.

They say nearly 143,000 children are trapped in schools where nine out of ten students fail English and math.

"The entire third grade cannot read or write at grade level. The expectations for my son are so low, I know he is capable of so much more," said parent leader Ebony Burrows.

Supporters of the charter schools staged the rally at odds with the view of other city and education leaders.

They claim they are concerned about students in failing schools. State political leaders are also joining the call for greater strength in public schools.

"We should not have to struggle to provide our kids with equal and excellent education. All of our children, all of our families have a right to quality schools," said New York State Assemblyman Robert Rodriguez.

Demonstrators were also calling for more educational options for parents in struggling neighborhoods.

Participants wore red T-shirts with the slogan "Don't steal possible."

Denesha Gaffney of Brooklyn said her first-grader is doing well at Success Academy Cobble Hill. She said lots of public school students are failing and "charter schools could use that space."