NYC Schools Chancellor David Banks Retires Amidst Federal Investigations: Who's Next?

NYC Schools Chancellor David Banks Announces Retirement Amidst Investigations

David Banks, the Chancellor of New York City Schools, has announced his retirement, effective at the end of the year. This comes amid an ongoing federal probe into Mayor Eric Adams' administration. Banks' phone was seized by investigators just three weeks ago.

Banks' retirement is the latest in a string of departures from the Adams administration. Police Commissioner Edward Caban, who is also under federal investigation, resigned last month. Mayor Adams' chief counsel, Lisa Zornberg, also stepped down, citing her inability to defend the mayor. On Monday, City Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan announced his retirement at the end of the year, though there is no indication he is under investigation.

Banks' retirement letter, obtained by ABC News, emphasizes his pride in his accomplishments during his tenure. He highlighted initiatives like 'NYC Reads,' 'NYC Solves,' and universal dyslexia screenings, as well as the city's efforts to support thousands of newly-arrived migrant students.

However, the timing of Banks' retirement, coupled with the ongoing investigations, has raised eyebrows. His home, which he shares with Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, was recently raided by federal investigators, who seized his phone. His two brothers are also involved in the investigations, which encompass bid-rigging for city contracts and enforcement of nightlife regulations.

While Banks has stated his retirement was planned, the recent developments suggest it may be related to the investigations. The focus now shifts to Deputy Mayor Wright, who has been absent from recent public appearances, and the potential for further departures within the administration.

The Impact on NYC Schools

Melissa Aviles-Ramos, the City's next Schools Chancellor, has been selected. The official announcement will come on Wednesday. It remains to be seen how Banks' retirement will impact the future of NYC's public schools. The federal investigations are ongoing, and their potential consequences for the Adams administration are still unfolding.

<figure> <a href="https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/15350181_092424-wabc-adams-admin-departures-img.jpg"><img alt="Image of NYC Mayor Eric Adams" src="https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/15350181_092424-wabc-adams-admin-departures-img.jpg"></a> <figcaption>NYC Mayor Eric Adams</figcaption> </figure>