David C. Banks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
David Banks
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| Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education |
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| In office January 1, 2022 – October 16, 2024 |
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| Mayor | Eric Adams |
| Preceded by | Meisha Ross Porter |
| Succeeded by | Melissa Aviles-Ramos |
| Personal details | |
| Born | January 14, 1962 |
| Spouse |
Sheena Wright (m. 2024)
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| Children | 4 |
| Relatives | Tanya Wright (sister-in-law) Philip Banks III (brother) Terence Banks (brother) |
| Education | Rutgers University, New Brunswick (BA) St. John’s University (JD) |
David C. Banks is an American lawyer and educator. He was the leader of all public schools in New York City. He served as the 31st New York City Schools Chancellor. He worked under Mayor Eric Adams from 2022 to 2024.
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Early Life and Education
David Banks was born on January 14, 1962. He grew up in Southeast Queens, New York. His mother was a secretary. His father, Philip Banks Jr., was a police lieutenant. David has two brothers. One brother, Philip Banks III, was a high-ranking police officer.
David Banks went to Rutgers University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree there. Later, he studied law at St. John's University. He earned a law degree, called a Juris Doctor.
David Banks's Career
Before leading the city's schools, David Banks worked as a lawyer. He worked for the city's law department. He also worked for the state attorney general. Later, he became a public school teacher in Crown Heights.
Creating New Schools
David Banks helped start the Bronx School for Law, Government and Justice. This school was a model for creating smaller schools. These smaller schools aimed to give students more personal attention.
He also led the Eagle Academy Foundation. This foundation runs a group of public schools just for boys. He was the president and CEO of this foundation for many years.
Leading New York City Schools
David Banks became the New York City Schools Chancellor on January 1, 2022. As Chancellor, he focused on two main goals. He wanted to improve how young children learn to read. He also wanted to help students prepare for future jobs.
Improving Reading Skills
In May 2023, Banks started a program called NYC Reads. This program changed how reading is taught in New York City public schools. It made sure all schools used specific reading programs. These programs are based on the "science of reading." This means they use proven methods to help kids learn to read well. The program also created a single plan for early childhood education.
Preparing Students for Jobs
Banks also started programs to help students get ready for careers. These programs include FutureReady and Modern Youth Apprenticeship. They help students learn skills needed for different jobs. They also give students chances to get real-world work experience.
David Banks retired from his role as Chancellor on October 16, 2024.
Personal Life
David Banks is married to Sheena Wright. They got married in September 2024. Sheena Wright also held important roles in New York City government. She was the First Deputy Mayor of New York City from 2023 to 2024. Before that, she was the Deputy Mayor for Strategic Policy Initiatives. Sheena Wright was also the first female president and CEO of the United Way of New York City.
