Entering his 22nd year of teaching at NSU University School, Upper School Physics and Calculus Teacher Dr. Rafael Arechabaleta is no stranger to the USchool community. Drawn by the uniqueness of our school, Dr. Arechabaleta joined the USchool team early in his teaching career shortly after moving to the United States from Cuba. He has made significant contributions to our school over the years and has had a lasting impact in the lives of his students through his instructional approach and sense of humor, helping create a comfortable learning environment.  

Upper School Teacher and President Sponsor for Le Congrès de la Culture Française en Floride Tara Ellsley was featured by the Florida Chapter of the American Association of Teachers of French in their monthly newsletter for her leadership and outstanding efforts, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Congratulations to Associate Head of Academic Affairs Robyn Kaiyal for completing the 2019 National Inclusive Excellence Leadership Academy (NIXLA) – an online strategic diversity leadership development and institutional transformation program. The immersive, highly selective five-week program offered Kaiyal an invaluable opportunity to further develop her skills as a leader and identify powerful institutional strategies that support diversity, equity, and inclusion at NSU University School.

Middle School instructor Alicia Anania has been teaching science at NSU University School (USchool) for the past five years. Originally from Connecticut, Anania moved to Florida about eight years ago and obtained her bachelor’s degree in marine science from Nova Southeastern University (NSU).  

Upper School English department chair and teacher Ms. Ann Marie Sellers has 13 years of teaching experience, and we have been fortunate to have her at NSU University School for six of those years teaching English 10 Honors and Independent Research Study.

Lower School Innovation Lab Instructor, Ms. Michele Garren, is one of our in-house STEM experts and enthusiasts who teaches engineering, electronics, robotics, and coding to students beginning in junior kindergarten and progressing through fifth grade in our cutting-edge Innovation Lab.

Middle School Chinese teacher Ms. Hong Jia has taught at NSU University School for 14 years and has not only helped our students learn about Chinese language, history, and culture, but also develop an appreciation for all nationalities. As an advisor for the Middle School Diversity Club, she encourages students in grades 6-8 to recognize and celebrate the rich diversity in our school.

Upper School teacher Mr. Jan Northrop teaches Honors Economics, AP Government, and Philosophy for students in 10th-12th grade. He also serves as the boy's lacrosse program director.

Fourth grade teacher and team leader Ms. Elizabeth Haglund has taught at NSU University School for seven years, starting out as a second grade teacher in our BRIDGES program, which offers personalized educational support for our Lower School students.

Middle School Global Studies teacher Judith Roberts, Ph.D., has served as an educator, mentor, and leader at NSU University School for the past 13 years, having served as the faculty advisor for the Middle School Diversity Club as well.