NYC Schools Chief to Resign After Federal Agents Seize His Devices

David Banks, the Chancellor of New York City’s public school system, announced on Tuesday that he will step down at the end of this calendar year. His decision marks another significant exit from Mayor Eric Adams’ administration amidst rising tensions from federal criminal investigations.

This announcement follows a significant security breach where federal agents confiscated Banks’ phones, along with devices belonging to other key city officials, including the police commissioner and two deputy mayors. The police commissioner, Edward Caban, had already resigned earlier this month.

In a retirement letter sent to The Associated Press, Banks stated he had briefed the mayor regarding his retirement decision “after ensuring the school year got off to a good start.”

David Banks has an extensive background in education, having previously worked as a teacher and principal, as well as founding a network of all-boys public schools. He has served as the city’s schools chief since Mayor Adams took office in 2022.

Notably, his resignation letter did not address the ongoing federal inquiries that are focusing on several senior aides to Mayor Adams, their family members, campaign financing, and potential influence peddling.

Mayor Adams expressed that he was “immensely grateful and proud” of Banks’ accomplishments during his tenure leading the school system.

It is important to note that David Banks’ brother, Philip, is also a figure in the administration, serving as the city’s deputy mayor for public safety. Their brother Terence has been managing a consulting firm that claims to connect clients with high-level government representatives.

This month, federal investigators took possession of the cell phones belonging to both David and Philip Banks. Other prominent figures in the city’s administration, including Police Commissioner Caban, also had their devices seized.

David Banks shares a residence in Harlem with his partner, Sheena Wright, who is the first deputy mayor and also had her devices taken during the federal probe. When questioned about the investigation, Banks had previously opted not to discuss the matter, stating to reporters: “I can’t answer those questions.”

Federal prosecutors have remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the ongoing investigations.

Upon appointing David Banks as chancellor, Mayor Adams praised him as a “visionary” and an “innovator” who has dedicated his career to advocating for students.

In 2004, Banks established the Eagle Academy, aiming to provide quality education to young Black and Latino boys whom he believed had been neglected by the mainstream educational system.

Prior to taking on the role of schools chancellor, Banks chair of the foundation that raised funds for the six Eagle Academy schools, located across each of New York City’s boroughs and including one in Newark, New Jersey.