Background of the Closure Decision

Preston High School, located in the Bronx, is facing permanent closure set for June of this year. The decision was made public by the Sisters of the Divine Compassion, the institution that oversees the school, citing financial instability and a decline in student enrollment as the primary reasons for this action.

Community Support and Rejection of Sale Offers

In light of the impending closure, parents and alumni have rallied outside the hearing convened by State Attorney General Letitia James. They argue that the school serves a vital role in the community, particularly for students of color. Supporters have claimed that multiple purchase offers from interested parties were submitted to the Sisters but were ultimately rejected.

A parent expressed, “People of color come to Preston to feel safe because Preston opened the doors to anyone, even immigrants. They empower women, and these women become somebody and that’s what we need,” highlighting the school’s significant impact on its attendees.

Hearing to Discuss School Closure

The hearing, scheduled to last until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, aims to investigate the processes that led to the decision to close Preston High School. This gathering allows community members to voice their concerns and advocate for the continuation of the school, emphasizing its importance to the local population.