Zohran Mamdani announced that he will retain mayoral control over New York City’s public schools, reversing a campaign promise to end the governance model. The announcement coincided with the naming of Kamar Samuels as the city’s next schools chancellor.
Mamdani recognized his concerns about the state law that gives the mayor full control over the public school system but stressed the need for clear accountability. He explained that New Yorkers should know who is ultimately responsible for public school outcomes and said his approach will ensure community involvement is “not ceremonial or procedural, but tangible and actionable.”
Samuels, a longtime educator and current superintendent of Manhattan’s District 3, brings experience as a teacher, principal, and district leader. He will oversee more than 1,500 schools and a $40 billion budget.
The new administration faces challenges including student homelessness, chronic absenteeism, and early reading initiatives. Mamdani also pledged to hire more teachers, meet class size requirements, and expand support for vulnerable students.
