Some Detroit schools closed because of absence of teachers

DETROIT – Some Detroit schools are closed for the day because of an absence of teachers, although the number is lower than in previous days.

The district reported at least five closings Wednesday, compared to about two dozen on Tuesday and more than 60 on Monday, affecting tens of thousands of students. The so-called sick-out last week involved a handful of schools.

Teachers are upset over class sizes, pay, the condition of buildings and a plan by Gov. Rick Snyder to deal with millions of debt by creating a new district.

Mayor Mike Duggan toured some schools Tuesday, pledging to quickly come up with a plan to improve the condition of the buildings.

The 100-school district is run by an emergency manager appointed by Snyder.