“Governor Kathy Hochul’s historic victory last night will inspire generations of young people in our state. But her legacy will be more than just serving as the first elected female governor of New York. We know she is the right leader to fight for New York families’ right to a great public education.

Executive Director Crystal McQueen-Taylor is named as one of the 2022 Power Players in Education, published by PoliticsNY and amNY Metro. The annual list highlights influential educators, policymakers, and leaders improving NY education. Crystal is a veteran educator, advocate, and charter school parent with strong knowledge of New York’s school system.

Crystal McQueen-Taylor, a veteran educator, advocate, and charter school parent with deep ties to every facet of New York’s school system, will be the next Executive Director of StudentsFirstNY, the group announced today. McQueen-Taylor, who has served as the organization’s Chief Advocacy Officer since 2020, succeeds former Executive Director Jenny Sedlis, who served in the role from 2013-2021. 

“David Banks is the leader New York City needs to navigate the historic challenges facing our public schools and to reimagine how we educate our children. His lifelong commitment to improving educational outcomes for low-income students has transformed the lives of countless families and demonstrated his ability to bring best practices to scale. StudentsFirstNY congratulates David Banks on being named Chancellor and we pledge to work with him to help all New York City schoolchildren,” said StudentsFirstNY Chief Advocacy Officer Crystal McQueen-Taylor.

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StudentsFirstNY is a grassroots education advocacy organization dedicated to improving public school options throughout New York State.

“Congratulations to Mayor-elect Eric Adams on his resounding victory. We look forward to working with the new mayor to improve our city schools so that every child has a real chance at a quality education, no matter where they live, said StudentsFirstNY Chief Advocacy Officer Crystal McQueen-Taylor. As a product of New York City public schools, Eric Adams understands the many challenges that face families in low-income communities. After eight long years, we’ll finally have a mayor that understands the important role that charter schools play in expanding opportunities for children.”