Chancellor Aviles-Ramos Boosts Literacy, Eyes Mayor's Race
Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, who took the helm of the school system a year ago, has made significant strides in improving literacy and math scores. She has earned the trust of 92% of school leaders and is now considering a run for Mayor. Meanwhile, candidates for Mayor have weighed in on her literacy overhaul and the prospect of mayoral control of schools.
Aviles-Ramos has announced plans to further boost support for students, including expanding aid for homeless students, strengthening assistance for struggling readers, and piloting new curricula for English Language Learners. Under her leadership, reading and math scores have increased, a testament to her focus on aligning reading instruction with research and emphasizing phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension.
However, her administration has faced criticism for proposed cuts to early education, chaos in school bus service, and problems with special education. Despite these challenges, Aviles-Ramos has hinted at a policy around artificial intelligence, focusing on responsible use and mitigating bias.
With a strong track record in improving academic outcomes and the backing of school leaders, Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos is a formidable contender for the Mayor's race. Her plans to expand support for vulnerable students and her commitment to evidence-based instruction have resonated with educators and parents alike. As the race for Mayor heats up, her vision for the city's schools will be a key factor in voters' decisions.