Melissa Aviles Ramos Deputy Chancellor

Melissa Aviles-Ramos is a distinguished educator and the 32nd Chancellor of New York City Public Schools (NYCPS), the largest public school system in the United States. Appointed on October 16, 2024, she succeeded David C. Banks following his resignation. Aviles-Ramos’s appointment marked a significant moment in NYCPS history, as she became the highest-ranking Latina and Spanish-speaking leader in the city’s education system. Her journey from a Bronx classroom to the chancellor’s office reflects a deep commitment to public education and community engagement.

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in the Soundview neighborhood of the Bronx, Melissa Aviles-Ramos was the daughter of a Puerto Rican single mother. She was the first in her family to graduate from high school and attend college, experiences that fueled her dedication to educational equity. Aviles-Ramos earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Fordham University and a Master of Arts in English Education from the City College of New York. She furthered her expertise by obtaining Advanced Certificates in school and district leadership from the College of Saint Rose. These academic achievements laid the foundation for her impactful career in education.

Career in Education

Aviles-Ramos began her career in education in 2007 as an English teacher at Harry S. Truman High School in the Bronx. Her dedication and effectiveness in the classroom led to rapid advancement. She became the principal of Schuylerville Preparatory High School, where she achieved remarkable success, increasing the graduation rate from 23% to 68% in her first year and to 83% in her second year. Approximately 71% of English language learners at Schuylerville Prep were deemed college-ready under her leadership. This success demonstrated her ability to drive educational improvement in challenging environments.

Following her tenure at Schuylerville Prep, Aviles-Ramos served in various leadership roles within NYCPS, including assistant principal, deputy superintendent, acting superintendent, and education administrator. Her diverse experience provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the city’s public schools.

Leadership as Deputy Chancellor

In July 2024, Aviles-Ramos was appointed Deputy Chancellor for Family and Community Engagement and External Affairs. In this capacity, she oversaw innovative programs such as NYC Literacy Hubs and the Family Literacy Ambassadors. She also launched and led Project Open Arms, an unprecedented initiative to welcome, enroll, and support over 45,000 newly arrived students in NYCPS. Her efforts were instrumental in fostering stronger connections between schools and the communities they serve, emphasizing the importance of family and community engagement in student success.

Appointment as Chancellor

On September 25, 2024, Mayor Eric Adams announced Aviles-Ramos as the incoming Chancellor of NYCPS, succeeding David C. Banks. Originally set to assume office on January 1, 2025, her appointment was expedited to October 16, 2024, to provide continuity and stability to the school system during the academic year. Mayor Adams praised Aviles-Ramos as a lifelong educator” with a deep understanding of the transformative power of education, highlighting her commitment to making schools more accessible, inclusive, and effective for all students and families.

Vision and Initiatives

As Chancellor, Aviles-Ramos has articulated a clear vision for NYCPS, focusing on several key initiatives

• NYC ReadsA comprehensive literacy program aimed at providing every student with a solid foundation in reading and writing.
• NYC SolvesA math initiative designed to enhance students’ problem-solving skills and mathematical understanding.
• Student PathwaysA reimagined approach to career and technical education, preparing students for well-paying jobs and future success.
• Physical Safety and Emotional WellnessPrioritizing the well-being of students by ensuring safe and supportive school environments.
• Professional DevelopmentEnhancing teacher effectiveness through ongoing training and support.
• Family and Community EngagementStrengthening partnerships with families and communities to support student learning and development.

Aviles-Ramos’s leadership emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to education, addressing academic, emotional, and social needs to ensure the success of every student.

Personal Life

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Aviles-Ramos is a mother and a proud NYCPS parent. Her personal experiences as a parent within the public school system inform her perspective and approach to educational leadership. She remains deeply connected to her Bronx roots and is committed to serving the diverse communities of New York City.

Melissa Aviles-Ramos’s ascent to the role of Chancellor of NYCPS is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and passion for public education. Her journey reflects the transformative power of education and the impact of strong, community-focused leadership. As Chancellor, she continues to work towards creating an equitable and inclusive educational environment for all students in New York City.