Charter school shutdown over grades

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - The State Board of Regents made it official Tuesday, voting to close the Pinnacle Charter School in Buffalo at the end of this academic year.

The board cited poor grades, rejecting a last minute appeal from the school.

"There's a higher standard for charter schools, that's why we have them. They have to be better than the schools that sent the kids there in the first place and if they're not then there's no rationale to continue them," said Robert Bennett of the NYS Board of Regents.

Pinnacle teacher Stephanie Miranda said, "I have been very sad for a while, now I am just angry because these students get a good education here."

More than 500 students and 74 employees of Pinnacle will have to find a new school next fall.

"I don't think they take into consideration enough the changes that we've made this year and the difference the new administration team has brought to our school," added Miranda.

Administrators say they're not closing without a fight and they are getting legal help.

Pinnacle Board of Trustees Vice President Broderick Cason said, "The goal we have is to keep the school open and we will do whatever is necessary to get there."

Cason added they don't want their kids shipped off to a public school.

"To move them to another school where it's subpar education at best doesn't solve our dilemma," he stated.

So can legal representation be successful in keeping Pinnacle open?

Bennett flatly said, "No, I think they should save their money and don't waste their time because I admire their passion, I really do. I met with the board, I met with Linda, but I think that's a waste of time."