Today, New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos announced the beginning of the biennial Community and Citywide Education Council (CEC) election season, opening applications for parents to apply for candidacy for a CEC.
“Family voice is an essential part of any effective school system, and the Citywide and Community Education Councils are one of the most impactful ways to support our students and schools,” said Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. “I encourage all families from every community to consider becoming a candidate to serve on an education council—your voice and leadership can help shape the future of education in our city.”
Families are encouraged to join an information session, taking place daily, to learn more about election protocol. Information about this, as well as the structure and roles of Community Education Councils, the election process, eligibility guidelines, key dates, and frequently asked questions at schools.nyc.gov/Elections2025. Applications can be submitted online at schools.nyc.gov/elections2025 from January 13th through February 16th.
2025 Selection Process Schedule:
- January 13 – February 16: Candidate application period
- February 28 – April 2: Candidate Forums
- April 25 – May 13: Parents vote online
- May 14 – June 2: Run-off elections, if necessary
- June: Election results announced
- July 1: Members-elect take office
“Parent leadership is essential to creating schools that serve our communities, address shared priorities, and support the development of the whole child,” said Deputy Chancellor Cristina Meléndez. “Parents are the true experts on their children, and students thrive when schools, families, and communities work together.”
In response to legislation passed in 2022 by the New York State legislature to create more inclusive education councils, New York City Public Schools is seeking candidates for a District 75 seat in each district.
The councils seeking candidates are:
Community Education Councils (CEC)
Each CEC has 10 elected members who are, or were at the time of election, parents of students in grades Pre-K-8 in district schools, and two Borough President appointees. The CECs work closely with the district superintendents, approve school zoning lines, hold hearings on the capital plan, and provide input on instructional and policy issues.
Citywide Council on High Schools (CCHS)
The CCHS has 10 elected members, two from each borough, who must be the parents of students currently attending a public high school. Three members are appointed. One by the New York City Public Advocate, one by the Citywide Council for Special Education, and one by the Citywide Council for English Language Learners. The CCHS advises on education policy and issues involving high school students.
Citywide Council on English Language Learners (CCELL)
The CCELL has nine elected members, who must be parents of students currently or recently classified by the DOE as English Language Learners. Two members are appointed by the New York City Public Advocate. The CCELL advises on education policy and issues involving students in dual language or English as a New Language (ENL) programs.
Citywide Council on Special Education (CCSE)
The CCSE has nine elected members, who must be parents of students receiving special education services paid for by the DOE. Two members are appointed by the New York City Public Advocate. The CCSE advises on education policy and services for students with disabilities.
Citywide Council for District 75 (CCD75)
The CCD75 has nine elected members, who must be parents of students in a D75 program. Two members are appointed by the New York City Public Advocate. The CCD75 advises on education policy and services for students with disabilities who attend a D75 program.
“Parental support is essential to the developing and ever-growing mind of a child. It is the parents who know their children and their needs best, so an inclusive council will only help to improve our school system, our communities, and the city as a whole, including its youngest residents. Not only do Community Education Councils play a critical role in the lives of students, but they create a united system for parents, superintendents and teachers to collaborate in educating our youth today, so they are ready for tomorrow. It’s essential for parents across our city to be involved in the process of selecting CECs that begins today,” said Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.
“As we kick off the biennial Community and Citywide Education Council (CEC) election season, I encourage all parents to consider applying for candidacy. Joining a CEC is a powerful way to be civically engaged, ensuring that your voice is heard in the decisions that impact our children, schools, and families. By becoming a part of the CEC, parents can help shape the future of education in our borough, advocate for their communities, and make a lasting difference in the lives of our students,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson.
Every child deserves an education system that meets their needs and gives them the opportunity to thrive. New York’s Community and Citywide Education Councils give parents the opportunity to make this a reality, both for their own children and for the students in their community,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “By participating in these elections, whether by voting or by running for a council seat, parents ensure that New York City public education is being shaped by those who know our students best.”
“There’s never a better time than the present to get involved in your community and be active in the education of our children. For Queens residents who are interested in strengthening our school system and improving outcomes for our children, I strongly recommend applying to serve on your local Community Education Council or a Citywide Education Council,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Nothing can take the place of parental guidance in a child’s life, and the same goes for parental input on education policy that impacts all our children across Queens and New York City.”
State Senator John Liu, Chair of the Committee on NYC Education, stated, “Our school kids get the most out of their education when their families are able to engage with educational leadership and provide feedback into how to best run our schools. I strongly encourage parents to get involved with their Community Education Council, run for a seat, vote for their preferred candidate, and help us build a stronger school system for all students.”
“As a former educator and proud public school parent, I know firsthand how vital family involvement is to the success of our students and schools. The Community and Citywide Education Councils offer parents a meaningful opportunity to amplify their voices and advocate for their communities. I encourage every parent to explore this opportunity to lead, collaborate, and help shape the future of education in New York City,” said New York Council Education Chair Rita Joseph.
“Your voice matters! Participate in the upcoming Community Education Council elections and help shape our children’s future,” said Panel for Education Policy Chairperson Gregory Faulkner.
“CEC elections play a vital role in amplifying the voices of parent leaders within our community. These dedicated advocates champion not only their own children’s needs but also those of all children, ensuring that every student has access to the necessary resources in our schools. Your participation in these elections is essential for fostering a stronger, more inclusive educational environment for everyone,” said Panel for Education Policy member Amy Fair.
“Do you want to make a difference and invest in your child’s academic career? Do you want to effect change in the NYCPS education system? Make sure you vote in your upcoming 2025 Citywide Community Education Council(s) CCEC(s)! Even better, RUN for an education council seat,” said Shirley Aubin, Queens Borough President Appointee to the Panel for Education Policy.
“Family engagement and participation are the foundation on which our public schools are built,” said Panel for Education Policy member Naveed Hasan. “As we enter this CEC election cycle, I hope we see broad interest by parents to raise their hands and volunteer to guide and improve the experiences of all of the students in their district. See you at the candidate forums!”
About New York City Public Schools: New York City Public Schools is a testament to the history and impact of urban education in the United States. With over 1,600 schools spread across five boroughs, the system is made up of approximately 1.1 million students and staff, making it the largest public school system in the nation. These schools employ more than 75,000 teachers who deliver a rich tapestry of educational experiences to a student body that reflects the city’s vibrant and diverse cultural heritage. This network of educational institutions represents not just the scale of New York City’s commitment to public education, but also its dedication to fostering a learning environment that is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself.
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