It takes a big heart to shape little minds. And no words ring more true for our outstanding Lower School art teacher, Jenine Mas. From as early as she can remember, Mas knew that she wanted to be an educator. As a young child, she dressed up as a teacher for the beloved Career Day, emulating her own fourth grade teacher who was her inspiration and mentor. Summers were spent volunteering in her classroom and assisting on teacher workdays. She gathered an abundance of experience and guidance, and over the years Mas’ love for the classroom grew even deeper. When she started college, there was no question about what she wanted to do with her future… teach. 

Relationships children establish with their parents influence and shape the relationships they form in the future, which proves true for Upper School English teacher Evan Grosz whose decades-long ties with USchool stem from his parents’ longstanding connection to the Nova Southeastern University community. As the son of two beloved teachers, a USchool faculty member for the past 28 years, and now a USchool parent, both education and Shark pride run deep in his family. For most of his life, Grosz felt driven to pursue a career in teaching, having witnessed the happiness his parents experienced in their educator roles and the bonds they formed with students that became family.

Fifth grade teacher Fanya DeMaria is a veteran educator who has dedicated 23 years to NSU University School students. A major benefit of teaching at USchool for a little more than two decades has been her ability to forge lifelong bonds with her students and continue working with them as they advance from one level to the next. She appreciates watching them evolve developmentally and witnessing how the knowledge she imparted is used in their everyday lives, paved the way for a specific career path, and attributed to their passions.

Adrian Walters is a valued faculty member at NSU University School whose teaching style allows students to experience success and encourages student involvement. For the past seven years, Mr. Walters has been teaching pre-algebra in the Middle School, using guided visuals and step-by-step instructions to help students better understand mathematical concepts. His start at USchool dates back to 2004 when he worked as a camp counselor and Lower School teacher assistant before transitioning to his current position.

Upper School math teacher Sharon Smith is a long-time member of the NSU University School community. Her immersion into our community first began as the daughter of an NSU alumna and sibling of a USchool graduate. Fast forward to today, Smith has been an advocate of our programs, mission, and students as both a USchool educator for the past 35 years and parent to two Lifers, also known as students who begin their journey at USchool in Preschool and remain with the school for 13+ consecutive years.  

Teachers inspire their students in many ways, and for Shannon Dickey-Bridgman, her decision to pursue a career in education was fueled by her fifth grade teacher who served as her mentor and fostered a positive learning environment and sense of belonging. Being raised by a hard-working single mom only furthered her commitment to give back and inspire future generations of leaders through education. As the first student to get to school and the last to leave, she had more time to spend with her teachers building strong, meaningful relationships. She even had the opportunity to experience firsthand the responsibilities of teachers once students leave for the day. From helping build bulletin boards to preparing the next day’s lessons, Dickey-Bridgman was offered a glimpse into the world of teaching at an early age. 

Dr. Edwardo Johnson is a 26-year veteran Spanish teacher at NSU University School. His days are spent building Upper School students’ Spanish fluency and language skills and educating them about the culture and customs of Spanish-speaking countries, whether that be through engaging project-based activities or immersive experiences. Over the years, Dr. Johnson has become well known for surprising his students with a pop-up restaurant. Donning a chef’s uniform, he prepares traditional Hispanic dishes such as quesadillas, tostones, guacamole, and tropical fruit punches for students to experience the diversity of Hispanic cuisine.

“Find the best in U” is our motto here at NSU University School, and Middle School teacher Janet Schroeder is a prime example of an educator who embodies that motto. Schroeder has loaned her time and expertise to USchool for more than 41 years, helping students reach their full potential in the classroom, on the court, and in life. Over the years, she has held coaching roles for our varsity volleyball, softball, and tennis programs. In her current position as a physical education teacher, Schroeder supports Middle School students with their health and wellness, encouraging them to establish healthy behaviors, exercise, and make positive choices.

The heart of a school is its teachers, and we are fortunate to have some of the greatest educators at NSU University School – one of which being long-serving kindergarten teacher Robin Mendelson. With more than 41 years of teaching under her belt, Mendelson is a valued member of our school community whose passion and commitment to her students and their education has made a world of difference in the lives of many. When walking into her classroom, one thing is certain – you will always find energetic, engaged students exploring all there is to learn in an environment where ideas and contributions are valued.

Middle School teacher Maria Taravella has devoted 45 years of her life to inspiring a passion and appreciation for the Spanish language and culture in students, developing their global citizenship and intercultural understanding. Taravella has felt a strong love for teaching for as long as she can remember. Eager to have a classroom and students of her own, she arranged a large blackboard and desks in the basement of her home where she instructed imaginary students at the age of eight. The encouragement and mentorship she received from passionate educators, including her aunt, as she navigated her way through school drove her to follow her dream of becoming a teacher.