New York City is expediting the appointment of a new schools chief as Mayor Eric Adams faces increasing pressure to restore stability to a city government plagued by investigations and resignations.
Schools Chancellor David Banks, whose phones were recently seized by federal agents, will now step down on Oct. 16, earlier than his original plan to leave at the end of the year.
Mayor Adams announced that the accelerated transition will allow incoming chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, a former Bronx teacher and principal, to provide unified leadership to the nation's largest public school system.
Adams emphasized the need for stability during this challenging time, citing discussions with advisors and other leaders as influencing his decision.
The mayor, who pleaded not guilty to charges of accepting improper gifts and seeking illegal campaign contributions, is committed to remaining in office despite ongoing legal challenges.
Banks, who has led the city's public school system since 2022, has denied any wrongdoing and is cooperating with federal inquiries.
Several high-ranking officials, including Banks, have recently departed city government amid ongoing investigations. The FBI seized phones belonging to multiple officials, including Banks and his partner, First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright.
Despite the tumultuous environment, Banks recently married Wright in a private ceremony, denying any ulterior motives for their union.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has urged Adams to make changes within his administration to address the current challenges, but has not called for his resignation.
Adams appointed Aviles-Ramos as the new chancellor, with the city deciding to accelerate the transition to maintain consistent leadership for the school year.
Banks, a former educator and founder of the Eagle Academy network, has been instrumental in advocating for marginalized students in the city's educational system.
The city's decision to expedite the transition reflects a broader effort to bring stability and continuity to the public school system during a period of uncertainty.
