Dr. Edwin M. Quezada, Superintendent of the Yonkers Public Schools, is passionate about quality teaching and learning, compassionate about children and their families from all backgrounds and abilities, proud of his humble beginnings, and devoted to family and faith. Personified by animated English-Spanish dialogue, perpetual motion and thoughtful collegial research, Dr. Quezada moves the agenda of public education in Yonkers, New York, the fourth largest school district in the state serving almost 26,000 students and employing 3,500 staff. Under his tutelage in 2020, Yonkers achieved an on-time graduation rate of 91%, the highest of New York State’s Big 5 City School Districts and the first of this group to achieve over 90%. Additionally, Yonkers continues to close the achievement gaps among all race, gender and sub groups. In 2017, 2018 and 2019, Yonkers achieved the highest on-time graduation rate of New York State’s Big 5 City School Districts annually exceeding 80%. Equity and diversity are the underpinnings of his work, bookended by Yonkers My Brother’s Keeper and administrative appointments.

Equity and access to academic, social-emotional and cultural opportunities for every child is a moral imperative that drives Dr. Quezada’s work. He sees himself in Yonkers’ students; an English as a New Language student with dreams. For 30 years, Dr. Quezada’s education careers spanned teacher, counselor, human relations facilitator, principal and deputy superintendent which led to his current position. Accolades abound for Yonkers My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) launched in 2016, part of the national and New York State movement, initiated and co-chaired by Dr. Quezada. Yonkers MBK aims to close the opportunity gap for boys and young men of color through mentoring, academic preparedness and emotional and social skill building; 59 percent of Yonkers Public Schools’ students are Latino. Yonkers MBK is considered a model initiative in New York State and has received significant national accolades as well.

Dr. Quezada message to young women and men… A zip code must never define your journey in life. Today’s surroundings do not determine where opportunities may lead in future years. Embrace hard work, diligent effort and a relentless commitment to your personal growth. Take hold of every magnificent opportunity offered. You and only you control your destiny.