Mayor Adams, Chancellor Avilés-Ramos Welcome Students at NYC’s First HBCU Early College Prep High School

On Thursday morning, Mayor Eric Adams and Schools Chancellor Melissa Avilés-Ramos welcomed the start of a new school year by joining nearly one million New York City students and staff in celebration. The day began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the city’s first Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Early College Prep High School, located at 88-15 182nd Street in Jamaica, Queens.

The new, tuition-free high school is the first of its kind in New York City. In partnership with Delaware State University, an HBCU, students can earn up to 64 college credits toward an associate degree in Liberal Arts while completing their high school studies.

The September 4 opening marked a milestone moment for the city’s public schools. More than 100 ninth graders made up the inaugural class, greeted with performances and words of encouragement. Mayor Adams highlighted the historic opening as part of a larger vision to strengthen educational opportunities across the five boroughs.

“We are ringing in the school year with more investments to prepare our students for bold futures,” said Mayor Adams. “Today, we’re opening seven new schools, including the first HBCU Early College Prep High School, expanding programs for students with autism, creating 5,000 new after-school seats, and so much more to invest in our students and families.”

Led by founding principal and HBCU alumna Dr. Asya Johnson, the school’s model is inspired by the traditions and culture of HBCUs. Students will not only take college-level courses but also experience signature events such as Greek life activities, Founder’s Day celebrations, Mr. and Miss Freshman competitions, and Homecoming.

Chancellor Avilés-Ramos, who also celebrated her own daughter’s first day of middle school, reflected on the responsibility schools hold for families across the city.

“The first day of school is my favorite day of the year,” she said. “Families place tremendous trust in us with their most precious gifts—their children. That’s why we are committed to delivering a world-class education that prepares every student for success.”

This year also brings major citywide initiatives, including the rollout of a new cell phone and electronic device policy, designed to minimize distractions and improve learning environments. NYC Reads and NYC Solves—programs focused on literacy and problem-solving—will expand to 186 additional schools.

“We’ve opened seven new, innovative schools, launched a device policy that will foster focus in the classroom, and expanded programs that have already shown incredible success,” Avilés-Ramos added. “I am proud to lead this system and excited to see our students thrive throughout the year.”

With more than 1,600 schools serving diverse communities, New York City Public Schools remain focused on innovation, inclusivity, and academic excellence—ensuring every student is prepared for college, career, and life.