David Banks, Chancellor, New York City Public Schools, New York City Department of Education, testified at The House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education hearing on antisemitism in K-12 schools on May 8, 2024 in Washington.
© Jack Gruber/USA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK
(New York, NY) – After his home was raided earlier this month, and his cell phones seized, New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks says he will resign. Banks announced his intention to step down at the end of the year. He’s been heading up the nation’s largest public school system for nearly three years.
Banks reportedly submitted a letter of resignation to Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday. This comes as numerous federal investigations alleging corruption center on members of the Adams’ administration. In fact, Banks’ girlfriend Sheena Wright — a deputy mayor — also had her phones taken. And the chancellor’s brother — deputy mayor for public safety Phil Banks — also had his home raided.
The investigations into Adams’ orbit seem to be intensifying. In recent weeks the former NYPD commissioner was raided, as was the interim commissioner, and other top City Hall staff. Adams’ top city counsel even resigned her position.
But Mayor Adams has struck a defiant tone when asked if he will step down. He says he’s “stepping up,” rather than stepping down — adding he’s still got a city to run.