{"id":11388,"date":"2025-09-07T20:02:31","date_gmt":"2025-09-08T00:02:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/multi.nycnewsnetwork.com\/eastnewyork\/future-leaders-rising-hbcu-prep-school-launches-in-new-york-city\/"},"modified":"2025-09-07T20:29:00","modified_gmt":"2025-09-08T00:29:00","slug":"future-leaders-rising-hbcu-prep-school-launches-in-new-york-city","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nycnewsnetwork.com\/eastnewyork\/future-leaders-rising-hbcu-prep-school-launches-in-new-york-city\/","title":{"rendered":"Future Leaders Rising: HBCU Prep School Launches in New York City"},"content":{"rendered":"

Innovative Collaboration with Delaware State University<\/strong><\/em><\/h2>\n

New York City has inaugurated its first Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Early College Prep High School<\/a><\/strong> in Queens. This new school, established through a partnership with Delaware State University (DSU)<\/a>, enables students to earn up to 64 tuition-free college credits\u2014equivalent to an associate degree in Liberal Arts\u2014while attending high school.<\/p>\n

A Milestone for NYC Public Schools<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The HBCU Early College Prep High School opened its doors this September to over 100 ninth-grade students. The initiative, led by founding principal Dr. Asya Johnson, herself an HBCU alum, emphasizes both academic excellence and the rich cultural traditions of HBCUs. Students can immerse themselves in experiences such as Greek life, Founder\u2019s Day, homecoming, and other classic HBCU events.<\/p>\n

Mayor Eric Adams stated, \u201cThis school year we\u2019re making significant investments to set our students on bold new paths. Today, we\u2019re opening seven new public schools, including the city’s inaugural HBCU Early College Prep High School, expanding autism programs, adding 5,000 after-school seats, and more. Our goal is to honor students\u2019 diverse backgrounds and offer rigorous education that prepares them for the future. Our administration is determined to make New York the best place for families, beginning with quality education for our children.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dedication to Equity and Access<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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Mayor Eric Adams Sept 2025 at the new HBCU Early Prep High School in Jamaica, Queens Photo credit: Micahel Appleton\/MayoralPhotography Office<\/p><\/div>\n

Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos commented, \u201cThe first day of school never ceases to inspire me. As my daughter started middle school, I was reminded of our responsibility to families who entrust us with their children. We are dedicated to providing world-class education for every student. This year, we debuted seven innovative schools, launched a new device policy for more engaged learning, and grew our highly favored NYC Reads and NYC Solves programs to 186 more schools. I\u2019m incredibly honored to lead NYC Public Schools into this exciting era, and excited to watch our students thrive this academic year.\u201d<\/p>\n

NYC Councilmember Kevin C. Riley noted, \u201cAs a champion for educational equity, I celebrate the launch of the city’s first HBCU Early College Prep High School with Delaware State University. This school not only promotes academic achievement but also uplifts the proud cultural heritage of HBCUs. By awarding tuition-free college credits, we’re opening doors for Black and Brown students and investing in our future leaders.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wider Access Across NYC<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The HBCU Early College Prep High School is among seven new schools debuting across the city this year\u2014in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island\u2014to broaden educational access for over 500 students with tailored programs and career preparation.<\/p>\n

Key initiatives this year for NYC’s 1 million public school students include:<\/p>\n