Missouri to control St. Louis schools 3 more years

The decision by the State Board of Education means Missouri's largest school district is to remain under state supervision until June 30, 2011.

The state took over the district a year ago because of academic and financial problems. A three-person governing board, instead of the locally elected board, was appointed to run it.

That appointed board needs more time to turn things around, state education officials decided.

"I think we've got some stability where we're not constantly changing in programs," said State Education Commissioner Kent King. "Do I think we're over the hill? No."

State education officials are to hear a more detailed update from the appointed St. Louis school leaders next month.

The board also voted to suspend operation of a charter school that caters to high school dropouts because of what one official described as a chaotic atmosphere for students and staff. The state approved "The Can! Academies of St. Louis" last year.