New Schools Chancellor Embraces Media Spotlight
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Former School Chancellor Cathie Black kept her schedule mostly private, made few public appearances and answered fewer questions, but now the Department of Education has a public leader again and reporters are being invited in with open arms. NY1's Education reporter Lindsey Christ filed the following report. Dennis Walcott has visited hundreds of schools, but when the new schools chancellor went to an elementary school in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn on Monday, all cameras were focused on him.
One young student wanted to understand why Walcott's visit got so much media attention.
Student: Are you famous?
Walcott: I don't think I am, but --
Student: Tell the truth.
Walcott: Tell the truth? No, I'm being serious! I don't consider myself famous. I'm just who I am.
Walcott is a behind-the-scenes guy who now is front and center. The media strategy seems aimed at showing all is well with the Department of Education: the incoming-chancellor talking to parents, visiting schools and on top of the issues. It's a clear campaign, even to a first grader.
"It feels like we're on a commercial," said the student.
Walcott might argue it's more like reality television, but he said he hasn't changed his routine at all.
"The main difference is that you guys are with me. I do this on a regular basis," said the chancellor. "I'm always in a school, always visiting the children and the staff there. I think the difference now is obviously heightened because of this job, but it's important for people to see."
It's important, because for months the media saw very little. City Hall released photos of Cathie Black's school visits and video of meetings, but officials would not reveal where she was going in advance and rarely let reporters ask questions.
They said having cameras and reporters around interfered with Black's talking to principals, teachers and parents.
With Walcott, the press is welcome, despite the inconvenience.
"I know all these cameras are insane," said the chancellor to the children at one point Monday.
His natural demeanor is made for TV. He shakes every child's hand, cracks jokes while reading, plays kickball and has quick, detailed answers to complicated budget questions. The only time he seemed awkward Monday was when he jumped on stage to dance.
When asked whether Walcott danced well, a student answered, "Yes, well... he tried his best. Everyone tried his best."