NSU University School is a junior kindergarten through grade 12 independent college-preparatory school that provides a challenging and personalized education within a supportive environment for students of average to gifted abilities. Our students are prepared for productive lives and leadership roles through a program that focuses on academic excellence, extracurricular participation, and service to others.
NSU University School will be recognized among an elite group of independent, college preparatory schools for maximizing student potential through a distinctive, progressive model of education. Guided by a distinguished faculty who collaborate with NSU research professionals, we provide transformative experiences that engage and inspire students. This model of excellence integrates innovative, challenging, and personalized programming in the academics, arts, athletics, community service and a wide variety of co-curricular opportunities.
In the mid 1960s and early 70s, Marilyn M. Segal, Ph.D., renowned developmental psychologist, educator, and early childhood education researcher, pioneered a Head Start program that was housed in her family’s synagogue, Temple Beth El. Segal, a graduate student at Nova University and Abraham S. Fischler, Ed.D., then Nova University president, shared a vision for a student-centered, inclusive academic environment, rich with opportunities for individuality and self-expression. Encouraged to relocate her program to the Nova University campus, Segal founded University School in 1971. The following year, NSU University School was formally accepted as part of the Nova University family.
From its humble beginning in 1971 to its expansive campus in 2010, the fundamentals at NSU University School have remained the same. Outwardly, University School was drastically different in the early 70s than it is today. Initially, University School was housed in a modest two-story building, now the Rosenthal Student Center.
Because of its rapid growth, in 1975, University School moved into what we now know as the old Lower School building. USchool was divided into three houses—the Lower, Middle, and Upper houses—with semi-open environments. Considered a progressive school, students were encouraged to learn at their own pace, which gave rise to multi-aged environments. They thrived in a friendly atmosphere of mutual respect and were challenged academically.
Today, NSU University School’s core values remain the same. Our faculty and staff members are enthusiastic, proud, and committed to finding the best in all USchool students. They encourage students to be active participants in their education, to become independent thinkers, and to grow into the leaders of tomorrow.
NSU University School is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, the Educational Records Bureau, The College Entrance Examination Board, the National Association of College Admission Counseling, the National Association of Laboratory Schools, and the American Camping Association.
OUR STUDENTS
There are 1850 students enrolled in Junior Kindergarten - 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
Approximately 20 students are recognized each year by the National Merit Scholarship Program.
SPEECH AND DEBATE
The Speech and Debate team is one of the Top 10 speech and debate programs in the country.
ROBOTICS HONORS
Our Upper School Robotics teams have qualified to compete in the VEX Robotics World Championship for five consecutive years.
CHINESE AWARDS
Our Middle School Chinese teacher of 15 years was named Teacher of the Year by the Florida Chinese Teachers Association.
Although Skylar Ronkin took up the sport of pole vaulting her sophomore year, she has vaulted her way from junior kindergarten to the finish line that is senior year having experienced successes of all sorts at NSU University School. Ronkin's commitment to the NSU value of academic excellence is evident in the numerous awards and distinctions she has earned such as being named a National Merit Semifinalist, National AP Scholar, and earning a nearly perfect SAT score.
The sky is the limit for senior Aysha Zackria, an NSU University School "lifer" who has cultivated various passions while demonstrating a true love for learning during her 14 years at USchool. She is mindful and enthusiastic about seizing every opportunity that is presented to her because she knows she can handle doing so. "I'm a person who wants to do everything, and I think that having access to so many things has been really important me," Zackria said. "USchool is the land of opportunity; there's so much to do here."
For senior Michael Gonzalez, science, service, and sincerity have defined his eight years as an NSU University School student. Having taken 10 Advanced Placement classes in high school and currently enrolled in six, Gonzalez sees a challenge and tackles it head-on without hesitation. He ultimately desires to learn as much as he can and takes full advantage of the personalized education we offer at USchool.
Although it is housed outside of the Middle School, students from JK to grade 12 will have the opportunity to interact with the garden this year as our teachers find ways to incorporate it into their existing curricula.
Upper School students in Advanced TV & Film Production are learning how to become citizen journalists under the direction of our new TV & Film teacher, Mr. Harry Maxon.