Dear Friends,
I am thrilled to share that Preston High School — my alma mater and a cherished institution for generations of young women in the Bronx — is staying open!
This outcome was not inevitable. It happened because we organized, advocated, and came together as a community to fight for what we believe in: education, opportunity, and a future where our girls don’t just survive — they thrive.
As a proud Preston alumna and Majority Leader of the New York City Council, I took this fight personally. I worked directly with community members, students, elected officials, and Attorney General Letitia James to ensure that Preston’s doors would not close. And today, thanks to a historic agreement with the Bally’s Foundation, Preston’s home is secured for the next 25 years — for just $1 a year.
This victory isn’t just about one school. It’s about preserving access to high-quality, college preparatory education for our young women — especially in communities like ours in the Bronx. Preston is more than a school; it’s a launching pad for leadership, confidence, and lifelong success.
I want to thank everyone who stood with us: Principal Jennifer Connolly, the Forever Preston Alumni organizers, community advocates, Senator Nathalia Fernández, Assemblymember Michael Benedetto, and the thousands who rallied, signed petitions, and raised their voices.
And let me be clear — I will continue fighting for educational access and equity at every level: from universal early childhood programs to higher education pathways and everything in between. Every student deserves the tools to succeed, no matter their zip code, background, or gender.
This is what it looks like when we lead with community, purpose, heart, and compassion.
With deep gratitude,
Amanda Farías
Majority Leader, NYC Council
Council Member, District 18
Proud Preston Panther, Class of 2007 🐾
