Educators for Excellence-New York Responds To NYC Public Schools Leadership Transition

New York, NY – Sept. 25, 2024 – Following the announcement of NYC Public Schools Chancellor David Banks’ retirement, effective December 31, 2024, city leadership announced today at a press conference that Melissa Aviles-Ramos will take over as schools chancellor. During Banks’ tenure, significant investments were made in literacy and math instruction through NYC Reads and NYC Solves, aiming to ensure students have access to high-quality curricular materials. Educators for Excellence-New York (E4E-New York) expressed the necessity for these critical initiatives to continue to be a high priority moving forward.

“We thank Chancellor Banks for his 40 years of service to New York City public schools and his commitment to making bold investments in literacy and math instruction for our students,” said Marielys Divanne, executive director of E4E-New York. “It’s critical that moving forward, we remain focused on elevating the voices of teachers and delivering high-quality math and literacy instruction until we see the desired impact for our students. We expect that city leadership will maintain its focus and investment in this issue.”

As New York City Public Schools undergoes a significant leadership transition, E4E-New York expressed optimism that Aviles-Ramos will maintain a focus on improving classroom instruction and support.

“We’re excited to have a leader committed to carrying out the mission of implementing high-quality reading and math curricula through NYC Reads and NYC Solves,” said Divanne. “These initiatives have the potential to transform the lives of thousands of students, and their success depends on ensuring teachers receive the support they need to drive meaningful change.”

E4E-New York also stressed the continued importance of keeping teachers at the forefront of decisions that shape the future of schools.

“Teacher input is critical to the work ahead and remaining focused throughout this transition,” said Divanne. “As a former educator, Aviles-Ramos understands the importance of amplifying educators’ voices and seeking their input in the policies that impact their students and profession.”

About Educators for Excellence

Founded by public school teachers, Educators for Excellence is a growing movement of more than 35,000 educators, united around a common set of values and principles for improving student learning and elevating the teaching profession. E4E works to identify issues that impact schools, create solutions to these challenges, and advocate for policies and programs that provide all students with access to a quality education.

For more information, please visit e4e.org.