Meet New NYC Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos
Parents of children in New York City public schools learned there would be a change in leadership during a press conference on September 25, 2024, when Aviles-Ramos was introduced as the new NYC Schools Chancellor.
Who is Melissa Aviles-Ramos?
In the months to come, New York City parents will surely learn a lot more about the new school chancellor, but for now, here is a sneak peek.
Aviles-Ramos is a dedicated educator with a homegrown yet diverse background that spans multiple roles and responsibilities within the New York City Public Schools system. Though she’s held various roles within New York City Department of Education, her roots began in the classroom.
Her career in education began in 2007 when she started as an English teacher at Harry S. Truman High School in the Co-op City section of the Bronx. There she quickly demonstrated her passion for teaching and her commitment to student success. Over the years, she worked her way up through various leadership positions, ultimately becoming an assistant principal and then a principal.
During her tenure as principal, she achieved notable results. She boosted graduation rates by an impressive 60 percent in just two years.
In addition, Aviles-Ramos holds the position of the highest-ranking Latina and Spanish-speaking official in New York City Public Schools. She currently works as the deputy chancellor for family and community engagement and external affairs.
Aviles-Ramos is a Native New Yorker and a Mom
A native New Yorker, Aviles-Ramos knows what it’s like to be a school kid in New York City navigating the challenges that come with it. Growing up in the Soundview area of the Bronx, she had a modest upbringing and was raised by a Puerto Rican single mother.
As the first person in her family to finish high school and go to college, she faced plenty of challenges along the way. Those experiences in a resource-limited environment inspired her to fight for access and opportunities for students and families in the city. Consequently, she’s committed to making sure that every child, no matter their background, has a chance to not only succeed in school but to excel.
As a Mom, She Prioritizes School Safety
In an interview with CBS News, Aviles-Ramos outlined her main focus. “Our priority is for kids to read, do math, be safe, and have access to amazing programs and opportunities that are going to lead to success after graduation,” she explained. “I can’t imagine anyone not prioritizing those things.”
She has plans for addressing school safety and as a mom of a public school student, she relates to the concerns. As a principal, she was in charge of school safety and worked to provide a safe environment for her students and teachers. “It currently is and will remain a top priority in this administration,” says Aviles-Ramos. “As chancellor, it’s my responsibility to make sure that we are working closely with our community leaders, with our families, to really define what safety looks like.”
Conclusion
Melissa Aviles-Ramos brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by New York City students and families to her new role as schools chancellor. Her commitment to supporting teachers, prioritizing school safety, and ensuring access to excellent education for all students makes her an excellent fit for the position.
FAQs
Q: When does Melissa Aviles-Ramos take over as NYC Schools Chancellor?
A: She will take over on October 16, 2024.
Q: What is Melissa Aviles-Ramos’ background in education?
A: She has been an English teacher, assistant principal, principal, and deputy chancellor for family and community engagement and external affairs within the New York City Public Schools system.
Q: What are her main priorities as schools chancellor?
A: Aviles-Ramos prioritizes supporting teachers, prioritizing school safety, and ensuring access to excellent education for all students.
Q: How does Aviles-Ramos relate to the concerns of New York City parents?
A: As a mom of a public school student and a product of the New York City public school system herself, Aviles-Ramos relates to the concerns of parents and is committed to working closely with them to define what safety looks like.
