Jamaican-Born Educator Appointed Chancellor of New York City Public Schools

NEW YORK — Jamaican-born educator Kamar Samuels has been appointed Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education, placing him at the helm of the largest public school system in the United States. Samuels officially assumed the role on January 1, 2026, after being named to the post by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani late last month.

Samuels’ appointment marks a historic milestone for the Caribbean diaspora and is garnering widespread attention both in New York and internationally. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, he has spent nearly two decades within the NYC school system, rising from classroom teacher to central leadership. 

Before his promotion to chancellor, Samuels served as superintendent for Manhattan’s District 3 and Brooklyn’s District 13, overseeing schools across diverse neighborhoods and leading initiatives aimed at increasing equity and integration. 

In his early career, Samuels entered education through the NYC Teaching Fellows program and taught at several Bronx schools, including P.S./M.S. 194 — a site he visited in his first days as chancellor, reconnecting with the community where his teaching journey began. 

Mayor Mamdani, speaking at a press event announcing the appointment, praised Samuels’ deep roots in the city’s public schools and highlighted the importance of leadership that understands the system from “inside out.” 

As chancellor, Samuels inherits a school system serving nearly 900,000 students with a multi-billion-dollar budget. Early communications from his office indicate a continued focus on literacy and academic achievement, building on existing initiatives while also exploring adjustments to key areas such as math instruction. 

Support for the appointment has come from educational groups and leaders who emphasize Samuels’ firsthand experience and commitment to equity. At the same time, some commentators and critics have voiced concerns about policy directions tied to equity and integration efforts, illustrating the range of reaction to his selection. 

Advocates for Children of New York and other education stakeholders have welcomed the choice, expressing hope that Samuels will address systemic challenges and strengthen support for underserved students. 

Samuels’ rise from immigrant student to head of America’s largest public school system underscores both his professional ascent and the diverse leadership landscape of New York City’s education sector