Why Are So Few Black and Hispanic Students Getting Into NYC’s Specialized High Schools?

Why are so few Black and Hispanic students earning seats at New York City’s specialized high schools, and what can the community do about it?

Beacon and Blueprint went live from The Abyssinian Baptist Church Dr. Calvin O. Butts III Education & Cultural Center in Harlem for a community conversation on access, opportunity, and practical next steps. Hosts Sheena Wright, former First Deputy Mayor of New York City, and David C. Banks, former NYC Schools Chancellor, were joined by elected officials and civil rights and community leaders.

This conversation moves past the talking points to focus on what families, educators, and community leaders can actually do to change the numbers.

Recorded live on October 27, 2026.