Beloved Preschool teacher, Melissa Zonis, finds her greatest joy in teaching as she embraces the opportunity to inspire young minds every day. Stepping into her classroom at NSU University School, she sees not just students, but future astronauts, Broadway stars, bestselling authors, veterinarians, and teachers. Zonis fosters connections with her students, believing in each one and nurturing dreams for their future.
Who We Are
OUR STUDENTS
There are 2,000 students enrolled in preschool - grade 12.
DIVERSITY
On top of 50+ nationalities being represented at USchool, various assemblies and clubs exist to celebrate the differences within our student body.
COLLEGE CONNECTION
Our connection to NSU provides students with unprecedented access to college-level resources and opportunities.
COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES
100% of our students are accepted to top colleges and universities.
NATIONAL MERIT
On average, approximately 15 students are recognized each year by the National Merit Scholarship Program.
SPEECH AND DEBATE
The Speech and Debate team is ranked in the top 1% of speech and debate programs in the country.
ROBOTICS HONORS
Our Upper School Robotics team won the High School Division World Championship and advanced to World Championship Finals.
CHINESE AWARDS
Our Middle and Upper School students received more than 50 awards at the Florida Statewide Chinese Competition.
USchool in the News
Patricia Mitchell is a devoted Middle School teacher who makes the world a better place through her unwavering commitment to teaching. Mitchell serendipitously discovered her passion for teaching during her time at Michigan State University. While pursuing a double major in Speech and Language Pathology and Spanish, she simultaneously mentored students at the MSU Spanish Writing Center, and taught Spanish in a K-5 afterschool program. Through these experiences, she uncovered her enthusiasm for sharing knowledge, nurturing growth, and positively influencing her students. Although she has taught across various grade levels, she believes that her genuine calling lies in teaching in the Middle School. Mitchell thrives in the dynamic atmosphere of the Middle School classroom and appreciates the opportunities to cultivate meaningful relationships with her students during this stage of their lives.
Lower School teacher, Alison Dolberg, has dedicated 32 years to igniting a love for learning in her students at NSU University School. Known for her creativity and enthusiasm, she consistently designs engaging lessons and provides daily hands-on experiences for her students. When students enter Dolberg's classroom, they are warmly greeted and guided through exploration and differentiated instruction to enrich their academic journey.
Kathy Barberio is a Preschool teacher who has dedicated 35 years to educating students at NSU University School. Barberio believes that her greatest achievement as a teacher is the ability to love all children, playing a pivotal role in their emotional and educational growth. Hearing from former students about how she made a positive difference reinforces the impact of her caring approach. Barberio eagerly anticipates each new school year and creates a child-centered classroom that encourages students to be responsible and competent learners.
Peter Musso is a dedicated Upper School teacher who has spent the last 20 years looking at each new day as an opportunity to make a positive impact on his students at NSU University School. What brings him the greatest satisfaction is witnessing his students' development, their ability to achieve their aspirations, and encounter authentic happiness along their educational journey.