Students of three schools suddenly love Democrats

CHARLOTTE (AP) — Charlotte-Mecklenburg County school officials are prepared to close three schools because of the Democratic National Convention in September.

Officials also say there will be no trials scheduled the first week of September, while the convention fills downtown. Other courthouse services will be available.

The school board on Tuesday approved an alternative calendar for three schools near the convention center. It calls for the schools to close for up to four days to accommodate the convention. Students would make up those days Oct. 29, Nov. 21, Jan. 22 and June 10.

Superintendent Heath Morrison says he has not decided if closing the schools will be needed, but he wants to be ready if it necessary.

Two elementary schools and a school that serves severely disabled students could be affected.