Message from the Chancellor
May 9, 2025
Dear Families and Colleagues,
As we close out Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to take this moment to reflect on the immeasurable impact of our educators.
Teachers are everyday heroes—consistently guiding and uplifting our students in powerful ways that shape their futures. So let me be clear: teachers, at New York City Public Schools, we see you. We see how you change lives every day through your instruction, encouragement, and support. We see how you push our students to new heights and help them when they stumble. We see how you innovate and inspire.
This appreciation extends not only to our classroom teachers, but to all school-based staff—many of whom also have recognition days this spring. There are professionals who support our students’ physical and emotional safety and wellness, including our nurses, school safety agents, social workers, school counselors, bus drivers, and cafeteria workers. There are those who give our children individualized support and care, such as paraprofessionals, school librarians, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, childcare providers, and afterschool coaches and staff. And there are team members who ensure our schools operate effectively, from principals and assistant principals to family volunteers, from administrative professionals to custodial engineers, and so many more.
To our dedicated staff and families: thank you for all that you do. We appreciate you today and every day. Together, we are uplifting the next generation of New Yorkers.
In partnership,
Melissa Aviles-Ramos
Chancellor