Chancellor David C. Banks Names Melissa Aviles-Ramos as Deputy Chancellor of Family and Community Engagement and External Affairs

NEW YORK – Schools Chancellor David C. Banks today announced the appointment of Melissa Aviles-Ramos as the deputy chancellor of Family and Community Engagement and External Affairs for New York City Public Schools. Ms. Aviles-Ramos, who has a distinguished career in community outreach and advocacy, will report directly to Chancellor Banks and collaborate closely with the rest of the chancellor’s cabinet to strengthen partnerships with families and communities across the city.

"Family and community engagement in our public schools is a priority for our administration," said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. "With the appointment of Melissa Aviles-Ramos as deputy chancellor of family and community engagement and external affairs, we are continuing to prioritize the crucial links between home and school that help our students grow and thrive."

“Appointing Melissa Aviles-Ramos as deputy chancellor of Family and Community Engagement and External Affairs builds on our commitment to connect deeply with our communities,” said Chancellor David C. Banks. “Melissa’s extensive experience and dedication to advocating for students and families make her exceptionally qualified for this role. Her ability to build bridges between schools and communities will be instrumental in advancing our mission to provide every student with a bright start and a bold future.”

Ms. Aviles-Ramos brings a wealth of experience fostering community engagement and supporting families to her new role, having joined New York City Public Schools in 2007 as an English teacher, assistant principal, education administrator, principal, deputy superintendent, and acting superintendent. She has been a pivotal figure in developing 'Project Open Arms,’ New York City Public Schools’ response to the influx of migrant families seeking asylum. Her efforts have included creating advisory councils, launching community-based projects, and spearheading initiatives that address critical issues affecting students and their families. Ms. Aviles-Ramos will be the highest-ranking Latina and Spanish-speaking leader in New York City Public Schools.

As deputy chancellor of Family and Community Engagement and External Affairs, Ms. Aviles-Ramos’ portfolio will include FACE, intergovernmental affairs, the Office of Language Access, Panel for Educational Policy, and communication teams. She starts as deputy chancellor on July 15^th.

“Melissa Aviles- Ramos’ ability to remain immersed in our communities and remain responsive to parent voices makes her an amazing fit to lead the Division of Family and Community Engagement and External Affairs, and a smart re-addition to the senior cabinet,” said Deputy Chancellor Kenita Lloyd. “Melissa epitomizes the essence of what New York City Public Schools represents, with a true passion for service, and our families and communities will be well-served with her as my successor in this role.”

“Melissa Aviles-Ramos has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to connecting with our families and communities in meaningful ways,” said New York State Senator Jamaal Bailey. “Her deep understanding of their needs and her passion for fostering partnerships make her the perfect choice for Deputy Chancellor of Family and Community Engagement and External Affairs. I am excited to see the positive impact she will continue to have on our school system."

“Melissa Aviles-Ramos embodies the true essence of leadership and public service. Her strategic insight and heartfelt commitment to the community have made a significant impact on our schools,” said former Bronx Brough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “Her appointment as Deputy Chancellor is a well-deserved recognition of her invaluable contributions, and I am confident that she will continue to strengthen the bond between our schools and the communities they serve."

“Melissa Aviles-Ramos has always been a strong advocate for parents and the New York Public Schools communities,” said Grace Bonilla, President and CEO of United Way of New York City. “Melissa’s ability to listen, understand, and act on the concerns of our families has been instrumental in building trust and collaboration. Her creativity and experience in front of the classroom and at critical decision-making moments makes her the type of leader our children and families need.  As Deputy Chancellor, she will continue to prioritize and uplift the voices of those invested in the success of our students. We at United Way look forward to working with her.”

About New York City Public Schools: New York City Public Schools is a testament to the history and impact of urban education in the United States. With over 1,600 schools spread across five boroughs, the system is made up of approximately 1 million students and staff, making it the largest public school system in the nation. These schools employ more than 75,000 teachers, who deliver a rich tapestry of educational experiences to a student body that reflects the city's vibrant and diverse cultural heritage. This network of educational institutions represents not just the scale of New York City's commitment to public education, but also its dedication to fostering a learning environment that is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself.