Bronx School of Hip Hop opens with first freshmen class

BRONX (WABC) -- Hip hop has found a permanent home at one of New York City's newest public high schools.

The Bronx School of Hip Hop welcomed its inaugural class of about 100 freshmen, introducing students to a learning environment where hip hop culture is reflected throughout the building and curriculum.

"We have some quotes from different hip hop artists, such as Nas: ' The world is yours," said Jason Reyes, the school's founding principal.

Reyes, a Bronx native and former middle school principal, said the opening of the school is a milestone years in the making.

"It just feels, it's a dream come true, that's best way I could put it," Reyes said.

Artwork and tributes featuring artists including Lauryn Hill, Biggie and Hov are displayed throughout the school for the incoming students.

"We want students to come in and we want them to feel like they're home. They're in the Bronx," Reyes said.

Among the students joining the first freshman class is Xavian Sanchez of Harlem.

"Just like hearing hip hop being in a school myself already automatically my eye," Sanchez said.

The school is designed to teach traditional subjects through the five elements of hip hop. During a tour of the school, Reyes highlighted classrooms and learning spaces intended to connect academic instruction with students' cultural experiences.

In one classroom, students use a microphone to rap their math problems.

"I know you're excited to step into the studio and tell me all about your geometric calculations," said Yasmin Silvera, a geometry teacher.

The school also features a counselor's office with a meditation station for students.

"This is a place where you can go into, practice your meditation. The extreme value of leaning into who you are, what your culture brings to the table, is paramount. As students will now see themselves in curriculum and lessons," Reyes said.

Reyes said the school is beginning with a ninth-grade class and plans to add one grade level each year. Next year, the school will serve ninth- and 10th-grade students, with the goal of expanding to grades nine through 12 within four years.