“NYC Solves” Centers Evidence-Based Math Curriculum and Educator Coaching for Middle and High School After Years of Stagnant Math Scores, Particularly for Students of Color
Our Bureau
New York, NY
New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Public Schools Chancellor David C. Banks have unveiled their vision for the future of the city’s public schools with the launch of “NYC Solves,” a major citywide initiative to raise math achievement so all students graduate with strong math skills. Building off the early success of “NYC Reads,” this visionary shift revolutionizes and standardizes how math is taught in schools through high-quality, research-based curricula implemented across districts with intensive educator training and coaching. Through NYC Solves, schools will take a collaborative problem-solving approach that encourages students to explore multiple strategies and make connections between current and past solutions, fostering deeper understanding and independence in learning to fight a persistent problem: fear of math. This fall, 93 middle schools in eight districts and 420 high schools across the city will use the Illustrative Math curriculum, supported by intensive teacher coaching.
The Adams administration also announced the creation of the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning (DIAL). Long-time Chief of Special Education Christina Foti will be elevated to deputy chancellor to lead this new division. Under her leadership, this new division will focus on supporting multilingual learners and students with disabilities. Reflecting Mayor Adams’ commitment to serving all students and families, this new division will build holistic educational experiences for every student — no matter their background or ability — that equip them to graduate on a pathway to a rewarding career and long-term economic security.
“New York City has never had a mayor and a chancellor who know what it is like to come up through our city’s modern school system, but our efforts are already changing our public schools for the better, and today, we’re taking our efforts even further with investments in our young people for years to come,” said Mayor Adams. “Our new Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning will focus on supporting multilingual learners, and students with disabilities so every student can excel academically, be prepared for a rewarding career, and economic security — no matter their background or needs. And ‘NYC Solves’ will transform how we are teaching math in New York City and continue our track record of improving math scores by double digits. As someone who suffers from dyslexia, I can empathize with any student who struggles with school. But the equation we’re announcing today is simple: when you take good policy and multiply it by hard work, the net result will always be positive. Over the past two years, we have built a long record of accomplishments, but we are only just beginning to create a brighter future for our students and families.”
“Through the creation of the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning, under the staunch leadership of Christina Foti, we’re saying loudly and clearly that every student and their lifelong success is paramount,” said Public Schools Chancellor Banks. “No matter a student’s disability or level of English language proficiency, we’re committed to championing our kids and providing the services they need to excel academically and in life. I’m also proud to be following the groundbreaking rollout of ‘NYC Reads’ with ‘NYC Solves,’ reimagining math education and ensuring students and educators have access to high-quality instructional materials and support. This is an exciting day for not only our system, but the national education landscape, and I’m proud and eager to see the impact of this work for years to come.”
“New York City Public Schools’ vision for our youngest New Yorkers, particularly our multi-language learners and our students with disabilities, is just another step taken by the Adams administration to create a more equitable city,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Ana J. Almanzar. “This is further echoed with the creation of New York City Public Schools’ Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning, charged with ensuring that ALL students meet their fullest potential.”
“The launch of the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning in New York City Public Schools builds on a long-standing tradition of marginalized communities and their allies working together for real, lasting change,” said Public Schools Deputy Chancellor Foti. “The Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning is dedicated to creating an educational environment where every student thrives through comprehensive inclusivity and accessibility. This division embodies our commitment to recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the diverse needs of all our students, ensuring each child has the opportunity to succeed. This isn’t just the creation of a new division — this is our mayor and chancellor’s elevation and prioritization of our students, their families, and their communities.”
