Overview
Mayor Eric Adams announced the appointment of Melissa Aviles-Ramos as the new Chancellor of New York City Public Schools, effective January 1, 2025. Aviles-Ramos, currently the deputy chancellor for family and community engagement, brings nearly two decades of experience within the school system, including significant achievements in improving graduation rates and community engagement.
Key Highlights of the Announcement
- Background and Experience:
- Aviles-Ramos joined NYC Public Schools in 2007 as an English teacher, later serving as an assistant principal, principal (where she increased graduation rates by 60% within two years), deputy superintendent, and acting superintendent.
- She has led various initiatives focused on community engagement and support for families, such as creating advisory councils and spearheading projects that address pressing issues for students and their families.
- Vision and Goals:
- As Chancellor, Aviles-Ramos aims to maintain stability during the transition, support students with disabilities and multilingual learners, improve literacy and math proficiency, and ensure school safety.
- She expressed gratitude for Chancellor David C. Banks’ leadership and emphasized her commitment to continuing the work that began during his tenure.
- Support from City Leaders:
- Mayor Adams praised her dedication and experience, calling her “the right woman for the moment.”
- Current Chancellor Banks highlighted her deep commitment to family and community engagement, forecasting a positive future for NYC Public Schools under her leadership.
- City officials expressed confidence in her ability to build on recent successes and continue enhancing educational opportunities for all students.
Accomplishments During Chancellor Banks’ Tenure
Under Chancellor Banks, NYC Public Schools achieved several milestones:
- Launched the “NYC Reads” literacy initiative and “NYC Solves” math program.
- Instituted dyslexia screenings and opened the first public school dedicated to supporting students with dyslexia.
- Expanded Gifted and Talented programs and increased early childhood enrollment significantly.
- Helped over 8,600 students secure job placements through the FutureReadyNYC initiative.
About Melissa Aviles-Ramos
- Personal Background:
- Born and raised in the Bronx to a Puerto Rican single mother, Aviles-Ramos is a first-generation high school and college graduate.
- Professional Journey:
- She started as an English teacher and became principal at Schuylerville Preparatory High School, raising its graduation rate dramatically.
- Her experience includes overseeing initiatives to integrate migrant families into the school system.
- Education:
- Aviles-Ramos holds a Bachelor of Arts from Fordham University and a Master of Arts from CUNY City College. She is a mother and continues to advocate for access and equity in education.
Reactions to the Appointment
- Local Leaders:
- Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. expressed excitement about her leadership, emphasizing her extensive experience and commitment to the community.
- State Senators and Assemblymembers highlighted her track record and potential to improve educational outcomes for all students.
- Community Feedback:
- Educators and community leaders lauded her advocacy for families and commitment to addressing challenges faced by students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Melissa Aviles-Ramos’ appointment as Chancellor marks a significant moment for New York City Public Schools, with hopes for continued progress in transforming the educational landscape for its nearly 1 million students.
