Mayor Michael Bloomberg defended Bronx and city schools Monday in light of a new state report that found violent incidents increased in the 2003-2004 school year.

The state Education Department's report, which also covers the 2004-2005 school year, was made available after the state comptroller ordered it be posted. He wants parents to be able to have enough time to make a decision to transfer their children to a safer school. Bloomberg, however, says the city's measurement is consistent each year. He says schools citywide are safer and crime is down.

The state plans to continue to monitor schools across the state.

Related InformationViolent and Disruptive Incidents Reported by Public Schoolsfor 2003-04 and 2004-05 School Years