New college prep high school for students dreaming of attending an HBCU opens in Jamaica, Queens

JAMAICA, Queens (WABC) -- HBCU Early College Prep High School (HBCUECP) is one of seven new schools to open this academic year, and the first school of its kind in New York City.

This new school allows students to earn college credits and leave high school with an associate's degree. Notably, the school is specifically geared towards students who aspire to one day attend an HBCU -- that is, a Historically Black College or University.

HBCU schools were crucial providers of higher education to Black Americans when they were still excluded from enrolling in other colleges and universities. Even now, after the Civil Rights Movement greatly expanded access to education, HBCU schools remain a source of connection, community and pride in overcoming adversity.

"Rooted in the legacy of HBCUs, we prepare scholars with the academic excellence, cultural pride, and real-world skills to lead and thrive in college, career, and life," HBCUECP's mission statement reads.

"Right here in southeast Queens you will experience some of that HBCU magic, right now in real time, while walking a path where high school collides with higher education," said Dr. Shawn Rux, senior executive director of the NYC Dept. of Education.

On Thursday, the school opened its doors for the first time to welcome an inaugural class of eager young scholars with big dreams.

"I want to study law, major in political science," student Chance Thomas shared.

"I knew this was the community I wanted to be part of," said student Riley Douglas, who hopes to attend Spelman College. "As soon as I heard of HBCU Early College Prep, I knew this is where I belonged."

Students' parents were also excited about the opportunity.

"College is hard... so many kids attempt to go to college and do not have the opportunity to go to college, so to have a school get a kickstart and get an early education towards that is a plus," said dad Nigel Douglas.

Education and city leaders spoke at an event honoring the opening of the school.

"We need an HBCU to allow you to become who you want to become," Mayor Eric Adams told the student body.

"You are the inaugural class of this historic school that represents years of hard work and transformation of your ancestors, who made sure the paved way was available and accessible to you. You are our future, we are turning it over to you to make it better," Melissa Aviles-Ramos, the Chancellor of New York City Public Schools, addressed the first class.