By Lyndon Taylor
Outrage and disbelief reverberated through Restoration Plaza this week as community members, clergy, elected officials, and local stakeholders gathered to voice unified opposition to the sudden decision by NYC Schools Chancellor Melinda Aviles-Ramos to remove Superintendent Brendan Mims from his post in District 16.
The hastily convened meeting was led by Assemblymember Stefani L. Zinerman, Deputy Majority Whip and representative for New York State Assembly District 56 in Brooklyn. Zinerman, a vocal supporter of Superintendent Mims, reaffirmed her unwavering confidence in his leadership, citing his student-centered approach and the academic and cultural progress made in the district under his guidance.
“Mims has brought intentional, student-focused leadership to District 16,” Zinerman stated. “He’s laid a strong academic and cultural foundation for our children. This decision is not only a blow to our district, but a disservice to the students and families who have benefited from his dedication.”
Speaker after speaker at the community meeting echoed similar sentiments, offering glowing praise for Mims’ work and demanding answers from the Schools Chancellor and the Department of Education.
“The biggest issue here is transparency,” said Kofi Osei Williams, Executive Director of Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation. “If there was a problem with Superintendent Mims, the principals, parents, and community partners should have been informed. We deserve clarity. We need answers.”
Parents in the district have also voiced their frustration and confusion over the decision.
“I’ve known Mims since he took office, and he’s been phenomenal,” said Charmaine Crosby, a longtime parent in the district. “He’s done so much behind the scenes for us parents—things that don’t make headlines but make a difference. Just a month ago, we were here celebrating him, and now we’re fighting to keep him.”
Rev. Afiya Dawson, Senior Minister at The House of Lord Church and a former teacher and guidance counselor in the district, emphasized Mims’ rare caliber as an educational leader.
“Brendan Mims is excellent—not just good. He’s a talent who’s made an undeniable impact on this community,” Dawson declared. “Why replace excellence?”
Superintendent Mims, a respected educator and founding principal of M.S. 358 Magnet School for STEAM Exploration and Experiential Learning in Queens, has garnered widespread acclaim for his vision and results-driven leadership in District 16.
As questions mount and support swells for Mims, community leaders say they are not backing down. “This isn’t over,” Assemblymember Zinerman assured the crowd. “We will stand together to ensure our district’s voice is heard.”
At the heart of the outcry is a community fighting not just for a superintendent, but for transparency, respect, professionalism and a future shaped by leaders who put children first.