Tulsa school board says 'no' to Pentagon Academy application

The Tulsa School Board has rejected an application for what would have been Tulsa's fourth charter school. <br><br>Several hundred people showed up at the board meeting Monday night in support of

Tuesday, April 30th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The Tulsa School Board has rejected an application for what would have been Tulsa's fourth charter school.

Several hundred people showed up at the board meeting Monday night in support of the Pentagon Academy. They say it would provide an education alternative to children in north Tulsa. But, Superintendent Doctor David Sawyer says last minute concerns about a potential conflict of interest raised a red flag.

The Academy's attorney says organizers had addressed those questions before Monday's vote. Dr David Sawyer: "I make the assumption that the applicant is familiar with the rules and regulations governing what they're applying for and our responsibility is to review that proposal and provide that service." Attorney for the academy, Genter Drummond: "This is a very viable institution offering a wonderful alternative to the north Tulsa families and students."

The Pentagon Academy has 30 days to respond to the district's concerns and to resubmit its application.