Kamar Samuels skips annual NYC State of Our Schools address

New York City Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels has broken with tradition by failing to deliver the annual ‘State of Our Schools’ address. Established in 2023 by former Chancellor David Banks, the September speech has historically been used to outline the city’s educational priorities and vision for the upcoming school year.

The Department of Education confirmed that no such speech is currently scheduled. The decision has drawn criticism from parents and advocates who argue the administration lacks a clear strategy for the city’s public school system. Some Department of Education insiders have speculated that the move may indicate a lack of confidence from City Hall regarding Samuels.

Critics have also pointed to a perceived lack of a detailed education agenda under Mayor Mamdani’s administration. This comes amid reports of declining academic performance, including a 6% year-over-year drop in English Language Arts proficiency for students in grades 3-8.