zoo school sounds awesome...

Three zoo school students face charges for using a bat to beat another student who taunted them about being John Kerry supporters days after the contentious election.

The argument began earlier in the day Thursday with a discussion about candidates the minors had supported for president, Backstrom said. The two victims supported President Bush.

"We were sitting in the computer room at school, and there was kind of a political debate," said Chad McKay of Arden Hills. "Some people said only gay people vote for Bush." Chad said the victim said "only gay people would vote for Kerry because he supports gay marriage."

Any assault is also unusual at the 400-student magnet school at the Minnesota Zoo for students interested in the specialized science and environmental programs, principal Dan Bodette said. Juniors and seniors from the district's four high schools apply for spots at the magnet school, which offers classes in marine biology, ornithology, eco-architecture and indigenous philosophy.