Schools Chancellor Dennis M. Walcott today announced the departure of Natalie Ravitz, Communications Director for the Department of Education, who is leaving to become the Chief of Staff to Mr. Rupert Murdoch, the Chairman and CEO of News Corporation. Ravitz joined the Department of Education in June 2010 under then-Chancellor Joel Klein.
“Natalie has been an integral part of my cabinet and close confidante since I took over as Chancellor, and I want to thank her for her sharp insight, strategic vision, and commitment to advancing our education agenda,” Chancellor Walcott said. “We will miss her, but wish her nothing but the best as she begins this exciting new journey.”
“Working with the talented people here at the Department of Education and City Hall has been an incredible experience,” Ravitz said. “I leave with great admiration and affection for my colleagues, and in particular for Chancellor Walcott and Mayor Bloomberg, who have allowed me to be a part of their amazing efforts to transform New York City’s school system. While I am sad to say goodbye, I am very excited to begin this new challenge with one of the most dynamic companies in the world.”
Ravitz’s last day at the Department of Education will be February 10th.