New Home for QHSS: A Modern Educational Facility
The recently opened Queens High School for Sciences at York College (QHSS) has moved into a new state-of-the-art facility at 165-15 88th Ave., after spending over 20 years in a single-floor space at York College’s science building. This $110.75 million project, which began in 2022, significantly enhances the school’s infrastructure, featuring modern classrooms, specialized labs, a library, a dance studio, and rooftop athletic areas.
Expanding Capacity for Future Scholars
The new building accommodates grades 9 through 12 and allows for increased student capacity, aiming to serve more students from across New York City. It includes 18 standard classrooms, two special education classrooms, and eight additional classrooms dedicated to a District 75 program for students with significant challenges such as autism.
Celebrating the Opening
A grand opening celebration was attended by various elected officials, including Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and state Sen. John Liu. Liu emphasized that QHSS stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to excellence in education, describing it as a “shining example” of what public schools can achieve. He noted the facility’s accessibility to students across the city, highlighting its central location in Queens.
State Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky praised the transformation from merely accommodating students in a college building to providing a dedicated space built for their educational needs. “Buildings are more than brick and mortar; what matters most about this one is who inside it: students drawn from every corner of Queens,” she said.
Vision for an Inclusive Future
Ana De Jesus, principal of QHSS, expressed pride in the outcomes resulting from years of advocacy, envisioning a place where students can build unforgettable memories. Meanwhile, Jenna O’Shaughnessy, principal of the new District 75 program called the Queens Academy for Innovative Learning, reiterated the commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that supports individual growth for all students.
A Place to Thrive
QHSS Superintendent Josephine Van-Ess remarked on the significance of the new facility, stating it embodies an environment worthy of the brilliance and potential of its students. With facilities equipped for modern learning, including science labs and creative spaces, the new campus signifies a broader opportunity for the youth of Queens, ensuring they can thrive academically and personally.
As QHSS steps into this new chapter, the community looks forward to the positive impact this facility will have on students’ educational journeys.
