New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks took the stage at this year's State of our Schools address, where he promised to reverse some of the negative course that the system has taken in its teaching. 

Applause filled the auditorium at the Boys and Girls school in Brooklyn, but New York City Education Chancellor David Banks said the current state of the city's education system is nothing to clap about.

"That's our failure, it's our failure," Banks exclaimed, standing on the auditorium stage. "It's our failure!"

The chancellor was vocal at this year's State of our Schools address, stating that about 51% of students were not at an acceptable reading level and 62% of students were below proficiency in math.

Banks blamed it on a "flawed playbook" and the methods of teaching that were used.

"It's a completely misguided way and we're fixing that playbook starting right now," Banks said.

The chancellor highlighted initiatives to reverse these trends. For reading, schools will shift to what is called the "science of reading." 

This method focuses on children learning phonics, utilizing imagery and vocabulary, and kicked off just before the start of summer this year.

For improving math proficiency, his plan, he explained, is to launch "a single, high-quality curriculum in over 250 high schools along with intensive professional development."

An apprenticeship program will be introduced to get students exposed to different career fields as well. Banks also announced an increase in school security by installing door-locking systems at schools.