EdCast Schools of New York Posted March 13, 2015 By Matt Weber Carmen Fariña, chancellor of New York City Department of Education and 50-year veteran educator, wants to make one simple thing clear: Education is all about the children. In order to do the best for them, the adults — from parents to teachers, administrators to politicians — need to put aside their differences and come together. Being successful in her job, she says, is not about competition, it is about collaboration. It is in this spirit she is approaching the huge task of leading New York City Schools and, as she discussed at the Askwith Forum on March 5, finding common-sense solutions for problems of equity, college-readiness, and underperforming schools.In this edition of the Harvard EdCast, Fariña shares her vision and discusses the challenges of and goals for leading the nation’s largest school district.About the Harvard EdCast The Harvard EdCast is a weekly series of podcasts, available on the Harvard University iTunes U page, that features a 15-20 minute conversation with thought leaders in the field of education from across the country and around the world. Hosted by Matt Weber, the Harvard EdCast is a space for educational discourse and openness, focusing on the myriad issues and current events related to the field. EdCast An education podcast that keeps the focus simple: what makes a difference for learners, educators, parents, and communities Explore All Articles Related Articles EdCast Facing Challenges, Driving Success (in Chicago) Dr. Janice K. Jackson, CEO of the Chicago Public Schools, discusses the challenges — including a looming teacher strike — of leading the country's third largest school district. Usable Knowledge In Leaders We Trust Andrés Alonso shares his views on what it really takes to be superintendent. News Leadership Lessons for Urban School Districts The Public Education Leadership Project works with districts — such as the Los Angeles Unified School District — to spur innovation and improve outcomes.