Jennifer Lopez, the internationally acclaimed entertainer and Bronx native, has stepped up to support her high school alma mater, Preston High School, during a critical moment in its history. Faced with a proposed closure due to financial struggles and declining enrollment, the school found an unexpected champion in Lopez, whose involvement helped galvanize community efforts to save the institution.

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A Personal and Symbolic Connection

Lopez graduated from Preston High School in 1987, an all-girls private Catholic college preparatory school founded in 1947 by the Sisters of the Divine Compassion. Located at 2780 Schurz Avenue in the Bronx, the school holds deep personal significance for Lopez—who rose from these Bronx roots to global fame. Her backing was both heartfelt and symbolic, representing the power of community pride and commitment to education.

The Threat of Closure and Community Mobilization

By early 2025, Preston High School faced a grim future. A 30% decline in enrollment over 13 years and financial instability prompted the school board to propose closure at the end of the 2024-2025 academic year. A March 13, 2025 letter from the board outlined these challenges, sparking widespread concern and mobilizing students, alumni, parents, and local officials.

The community rallied fiercely, organizing protests and demanding transparency and solutions. New York State Attorney General Letitia James convened a public hearing, hearing over three hours of testimony—a clear testament to the school’s importance. Despite cooperation from the Sisters of Divine Compassion, who own the school, an initial offer from Bally’s Foundation to purchase the school for $8.5 million—with $1.5 million earmarked for repairs and a 25-year leaseback at $1 per year—was declined.

Lopez’s Public Show of Support

Amid mounting tension, Lopez used her platform to raise awareness and boost morale. On April 14, 2024, she posted on Instagram Stories:
“As a proud alumna of Preston High School, I am deeply moved to see the students, families, and local officials making their voices heard during this challenging time. I see and hear you. The support from the community is truly inspiring, and I hope they can find a path forward that honors the school’s legacy. #PrestonForever.”

Accompanying her message were throwback photos—one with her wearing a jacket emblazoned with the school’s emblem, another capturing her running on the school track, and footage of a reunion with other alumni. Her endorsement helped amplify the community’s efforts and drew national media attention to the school’s plight.

A Victory for the Community

On April 22, 2025, a breakthrough deal was reached: a charitable arm of Bally’s Corporation purchased the school’s buildings for $8.5 million and committed $1.5 million toward repairs. The Catholic school will lease the property back for 25 years at $1 per year, with an option to buy it in the future—ensuring Preston High School’s survival for years to come.

By mid-June 2025, the school resumed normal academic operations, with events such as the end of the fourth quarter and Regents exams proceeding as scheduled.

Conclusion

Jennifer Lopez’s visible and vocal support played a meaningful role in preserving Preston High School, a beacon of education in the Bronx for generations of young women. Her involvement not only rallied the community but also underscored the enduring bond between an alumna and her alma mater—a powerful reminder of how celebrities can leverage their influence to protect and promote vital institutions.

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