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Another Lawsuit Filed Over NYC Schools Choice

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP/WCBS 880) -- A second lawsuit has been filed in an effort to nullify the hiring of a publishing executive as New York City's schools chancellor.

The suit by state Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries and other parents claims that state Education Commissioner David Steiner shouldn't have granted a waiver to allow Hearst Magazines Chairwoman Cathie Black to take the job.

The waiver was needed because Black wasn't an academic.

The lawsuit says Steiner could only consider her own qualifications. Instead, the suit contends he granted a waiver as long as she hired a top academic adviser.

An earlier lawsuit challenges Black because she lacks an advanced degree.

The state Education Department declined to comment.

Steiner had praised Black's record of leadership and achievement.

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WCBS 880 Reporter Rich Lamb with reaction to Black's statement about sending her kids to public school.

WCBS 880 Reporter Rich Lamb says along with the lawsuit, another controversy is brewing stemmed from comments made by Black about being unsure over sending her children attending public schools. Public Advocate Bill DeBlasio says that's the wrong message to send.

"I'm a public school parent. I was very disappointed by that statement. I think the leader of the school system has to show total confidence in that system and has to be willing to put her own kids in it. And so, I would say that to any, the previous chancellor...I would say that about anyone who runs for office in this city," said DeBlasio.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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