There is more upheaval in Mayor Adams’ administration as New York City Department of Education Chancellor David Banks has announced his retirement at the end of the year. This decision marks the latest in a series of high-profile departures from Mayor Eric Adams’ administration.
Chancellor Banks, who began his tenure in 2022, has been a notable figure in the city’s education system, having previously founded the Eagle Academy, a network of public schools aimed at serving low-income Black and Latino boys. His career in education spans decades, starting as a teacher in Crown Heights and eventually rising to lead the nation’s largest public school system.
The announcement comes amid a series of federal investigations involving senior officials within the Adams administration. Although the Chancellor’s retirement letter did not directly address these investigations, the timing follows the recent seizure of his personal and professional devices by federal authorities.
The FBI seized Banks’ personal and work phones on Sept. 4 during a search of the home he shares with his partner, Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. Authorities also raided the home of Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks, who is David’s brother. The investigation reportedly revolved around David and Phil’s youngest brother, Terence Banks, a retired MTA supervisor who recently founded a government relations firm. Allegations have been made that Phil Banks did not actually work for the named firm.
Federal prosecutors were investigating Terence Banks and his company in connection with a bribery scheme, according to the New York Times. All three Banks brothers have denied any wrongdoing.
David Banks said in a statement on Tuesday that he’d decided to retire, without further explanation, but sources intimate that he has been pressured to do so.
During a Sept. 13 press conference, he said he was cooperating with authorities. “I have always lived my life with integrity. Every day of my life,” he said. “Anybody who knows me knows that … so we’ll all wait and see where these investigations go.”
Banks added, “I love my brothers. I love my family. As I’m sure you love your brothers and your sisters and your family,” he said. “Nobody wants to see any family member going through stuff – or having your name in the papers for all kinds of issues.”
Mayor Adams has expressed his gratitude for Banks’ contributions to the city’s schools, highlighting the achievements made during his leadership. The search for a successor will begin as the city aims to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the momentum in improving education for all of New York City’s students.
