Queens High School for the Sciences (QHSS) has officially opened its new state-of-the-art facility in Jamaica, providing a permanent home for the school after over two decades in a single floor of a nearby college building. The new campus, situated at 165-15 88th Avenue, aims to better serve students with a strong aptitude in math and science.
Facility Overview and Features
The construction of the $110.75 million facility, which began in 2022, includes 18 classrooms, two special education classrooms, and an additional eight special education classrooms designated for a District 75 program that supports students with significant challenges, including autism. The new building allows QHSS to expand its capacity and accommodate more students from across the city, serving grades 9 through 12.
Officials present at the grand opening included Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and state Sen. John Liu. Liu emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating that the school is centrally located to serve students citywide. He described QHSS as a “shining example” of public education in New York City, aligning the school’s mission with the pursuit of excellence.
State Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky and Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman also welcomed the new facility, with Stavisky praising it as a model of what public schools should embody. She reflected on QHSS’s previous challenges within the limited space at York College and expressed hope that the new building will enhance the educational experience for its students.
Ana De Jesus, QHSS principal, noted that the establishment of the new school was the result of 23 years of advocacy, emphasizing the potential for students to create lasting memories in the upgraded environment. Jenna O’Shaughnessy, principal of the new District 75 program, expressed commitment to fostering an inclusive school community that empowers all students to achieve their full potential through individualized support and high expectations.
Superintendent Josephine Van-Ess highlighted the significance of the new facility, expressing delight at the prospect of students finally having a space that feels like home. She described the facility as a hub of opportunity for students, featuring modern science laboratories, a library, and various dedicated spaces for arts and athletics.
Why It Matters
The opening of Queens High School for the Sciences’ new facility represents a significant investment in education, designed to enhance learning environments for students in STEM disciplines. As the institution transitions to its new space, stakeholders hope it will better prepare the next generation of learners and expand educational opportunities throughout the community.
