New York City has opened a groundbreaking educational institution — the first high school preparatory program in the U.S. dedicated to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Located in Jamaica, Queens, the school is designed to provide students with direct exposure to HBCUs, helping bridge an educational gap in the Northeast while celebrating the legacy of these vital institutions.
Why This School Matters
HBCUs have played a central role in higher education for over 150 years. Today, nearly 10% of Black undergraduates in the U.S. are enrolled in HBCUs, which have produced generations of doctors, lawyers, judges, and leaders. According to Delaware State University President Tony Allen, for many students from underserved communities, attending an HBCU is the strongest pathway into the middle class, shaping not only their economic futures but also those of their families and communities.
Leadership and Vision
The new school is led by Dr. Asia Johnson, a proud graduate of Delaware State University. She emphasizes that many students in the Northeast are unaware of the rich opportunities HBCUs provide. Her vision is to introduce students to their heritage while preparing them for college success and community leadership.
A Partnership with Delaware State University
This preparatory high school has partnered with Delaware State University, allowing 11th graders to begin taking online college courses taught by DSU professors. Students can earn up to 64 college credits, graduating with an Associate of Arts degree alongside their high school diploma. Every graduate is guaranteed admission to DSU, ensuring a seamless transition to higher education.
Demand and Selective Admissions
Interest in the program has been overwhelming. With an initial capacity of just 100 seats, the school received more than 1,000 applications in its first year. Applicants were required to submit essays on community health or technology challenges and record short videos explaining how they plan to use their education to make a positive impact. This competitive process ensures that admitted students are both academically driven and community-focused.
Inclusive Mission and Social Justice Focus
Although the school focuses on HBCU pathways, it is open to all students regardless of background. Its mission emphasizes academic excellence, diversity, social justice, and community contribution — making it a unique model of inclusive education.
Support and Community Impact
The school’s inauguration was attended by prominent figures, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams and key policymakers, highlighting the city’s commitment to expanding access to education. Partnerships with organizations like FocusQuest, which specializes in HBCU recruitment, strengthen the school’s mission and outreach.
A Milestone in Education
The opening of this HBCU-focused preparatory high school represents a historic milestone in New York City’s education landscape. It offers students unparalleled opportunities to thrive academically, connect with cultural heritage, and pursue successful futures through the traditions of HBCUs. This initiative is more than a school — it is a powerful testament to the role of education in shaping equity, opportunity, and lasting change.