New York City schools disband teaching and learning division responsible for Banks’ literacy program

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City’s Education Department is undergoing a significant change as it disbands its teaching and learning division, which oversees Chancellor David Banks’ literacy initiative.

The deputy chancellor overseeing the department will depart at the end of the school year, as outlined in a letter sent by Banks to Education Department staff.

The departure of Deputy Chancellor Carolyne Quintana, responsible for reshaping elementary school reading teaching methods across the city, brought surprise to some staff. Quintana has been pivotal in ensuring that elementary schools citywide adopt specific curriculums by the upcoming school year. The department is also progressing in improving high school algebra programs.

“We are merging the Division of Teaching & Learning into the Division of School Leadership, now led by Deputy Chancellor Dr. Danika Rux,” Banks stated in his recent correspondence to Education Department personnel.

Emphasizing the allocation of resources closer to schools, Banks aims to fulfill a commitment made with Mayor Eric Adams at the start of his incumbency over the nation’s largest school district two years ago. Some staff may come under the oversight of local superintendents, who directly manage principals.