WHO WE ARE
Mission
NSU University School cultivates a passion for learning and a culture of innovation. We provide a college preparatory education emphasizing personalized excellence in academics, extracurriculars, and service. Enriched by our university community, we empower students to embrace experiential learning, leadership, diversity, and inclusiveness while inspiring them to be responsible and engaged global citizens.
Vision
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.
Click here to view our Strategic Plan.
History
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.
Accreditation
NSU University School is accredited by Cognia and the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS). NSU University School's Preschool programs are also accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Our programs are among less than six percent of early childhood programs nationally that have achieved NAEYC accreditation, which represents the mark of quality in education. As the only university-based NAEYC accredited early learning center in Broward County, the faculty and staff of NSU University School Preschool continually work to ensure all children receive the highest quality early care and education.
NSU University School is also a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, the Educational Records Bureau, The College Board, the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools, the National Association of Laboratory Schools, the Independent School Experiential Educational Network, the National Coalition of Campus Children's Centers, and the American Camp Association.
Core Values
Our Students
There are more than 2,000 students enrolled in preschool - grade 12.
College Acceptances
100% of our students are accepted to top colleges and universities.
College Connection
Our connection to NSU provides students with exceptional access to college-level resources and opportunities.
USchool in the News
Denise Lewis has dedicated 32 years to teaching. From the age of 7, she knew she wanted to be a math teacher. Although she initially explored other careers, working as a chemist and later as a medical representative, an unexpected teaching opportunity changed her path. In 1992 she became a fifth grade teacher in Kingston, Jamaica and has not looked back since. When Denise learned of a math position opening at NSU University School in 2008, she applied immediately. She joined the school as an Algebra 2 teacher and has taught in the same classroom ever since.
Lynn Stern has dedicated 40 years to teaching, with her journey at NSU University School beginning in 1992. Both of her children graduated from USchool and have become successful adults, attributing their skills as strong writers and problem solvers to the education they received there.
Lower School teacher Megan Leffin has always had a passion for working with young children, a foundation laid by her family's long history in education—both her parents and two of her grandparents were teachers. While teaching is in her blood, it was her experience at the Boys and Girls Club during high school and college that truly ignited her enthusiasm. There, she discovered her dedication to helping students feel comfortable and engaged in their learning.
As an eleven-year veteran teacher, Maximino Dronin-Quintana brings a unique flair to his classroom. His engaging and stimulating lessons inspire students to dive deep into inquiry and learning. Interestingly, Max did not initially plan to pursue a career in teaching. He discovered his passion for teaching while tutoring in multiple science disciplines during college. When the students he tutored consistently received good grades, his spark to become an educator was ignited. After graduating, there was an opening at his high school alma mater, and he jumped at the opportunity to apply. He has been grateful for the experience ever since.