De Blasio names Houston official as next NYC schools chancellor

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Mayor Bill de Blasio, right, announced Richard Carranza, the superintendent of schools in Houston, as his choice for schools chancellor.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced Richard Carranza, the superintendent of schools in Houston, as his choice for schools chancellor. Carranza would replace Carmen Farina, who is retiring.

De Blasio's first choice, Alberto Carvalho of Miami-Dade County, abruptly backed out of the job after being announced.

"Richard Carranza understands the power of public education to change lives, and he has a proven record of strengthening public schools and lifting up students and families," de Blasio said. "He understands the tremendous work New York City educators do every day to put our children on the path to success. Richard is the right person to lead our school system forward as we build on the progress we've made over the past four years and make our vision of equity and excellence for every child a reality."

Carranza has been the superintendent in Houston since August 2016. He previously was superintendent of the San Francisco school system.

He said he is "incredibly honored" to be chosen. "I want to thank the Mayor and First Lady for the opportunity to join an administration that knows public education is an investment in our future,"Carranza said.

Carranza is fluent in Spanish, his first language. He also said he loves to sing and play guitar and has been a mariachi musician for many years.

"If you are a student who does not yet speak English, we hear you. If you are a DREAMer, we hear you," Carranza said. "If you are… formerly not being served, we will serve you."