Principal’s Message

Dear Families and Community Members,

‍I am truly delighted to reach out to all of you as we embark on this exciting journey ahead at the Northwell School of Health Sciences! I am honored to serve as the Founding Principal of this innovative, state-of-the-art NYC public high school, set to open its doors in September 2025 in Woodside, Queens.

In recent months, our dedicated team has poured their hearts into laying the groundwork for our grand opening, and I am eager to share our progress with you. Through our extraordinary partnership with Northwell Health, we are committed to providing Opportunities and Access for all students. As the only unscreened healthcare-focused high school in Queens North, we are steadfast in our mission to create equitable opportunities for all students, particularly those facing systemic challenges.

Our team has been diligently collaborating to refine our curriculum, solidify our partnerships, and have been engaging in meaningful discussions about how to foster a learning environment that is both innovative and responsive to the diverse needs of our students.

What truly fills my heart with joy at this moment is the anticipation of officially welcoming our inaugural cohort. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to get to know each and every one of them personally, as we work together to design an enriching school experience that will be their cherished home for the next four years.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the middle schools and community-based organizations (CBOs) that have graciously welcomed us into their homes, allowing us to share our vision for the Northwell School of Health Sciences. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in helping us connect with families and students in our vibrant community.

We firmly believe that every student deserves the chance to thrive, and we are dedicated to building a supportive and inclusive environment where all can flourish. Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this incredible journey together!

With warmest regards,
Erika Hurtado-Valentino
Founding Principal
Northwell School of Health Sciences