New York City Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos takes reins of nation's largest school system

LOWER MANHATTAN (WABC) -- The new New York City schools chancellor, Melissa Aviles-Ramos, took the reins of the nation's largest school system on Wednesday as she replaces David Banks.

She now becomes the highest-ranking Latina and Spanish-speaking leader in New York City public schools.

Aviles-Ramos previously served as deputy chancellor for family and community engagement and external affairs. She has seen each level of city schools from her time as an English teacher to principal as well as educational administrator.

"My name is Melissa Aviles-Ramos. I am a Boricua Bronx Native. I am a mom. I am a lifelong educator. And I'm ready to be your chancellor," she said in a message posted to social media.



Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams made another major internal appointment in his administration after the resignation of former Deputy Mayor Philip Banks. Former prosecutor Chauncey Parker is set to take up the role.



Parker previously served as assistant deputy mayor for public safety. That role focused on mitigating gun violence.

Adams looks to continue filling the holes in his administration several high-ranking officials stepped down.

"And we got a bench. We have a couple of people in the pipeline we're speaking with and communicating with. We'll fill a position. There's a deep bench in this city, and there's a deep bench in this administration. We have people who want to work for the city," he said.

Dr. Ashwin Vasan, the city's current health commissioner, submitted resignation to the mayor last month. Vasan is set to leave office by the end of the week. Dr. Michelle Morse, the city medical officer, will take the helm on an interim basis as the city searches for a permanent replacement.



Meanwhile, a decision still has not been made on the mayor's selection for a permanent police commissioner. Adams says he and his team are working through a list of 22 candidates to see who might be the best fit.

ALSO READ | NYPD says migrant children behind several violent crimes near Times Square

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