Universal Academy of Florida (UAF)

I am thoroughly impressed with UAF commitment to providing an excellent educational experience in an Islamic environment. The board members, principal, and the teachers are not only skilled in their fields; but also genuinely CARE about each student's personal growth. The school's emphasis on Islamic values alongside academic excellence is commendable. My children have developed a strong sense of community and ethics here. I also appreciate the school's efforts to continuously improve and adapt to new educational challenges. Highly recommended for parents seeking a nurturing and value-driven education for their children. Ranking and rating talk, UAF is the best Islamic school in the country Masha’Allalh!

I'm thrilled to share our positive experience with my children's Islamic private school. The warm and nurturing environment, dedicated teacher and staff. The lovely principal has made our transition worthwhile. Additionally, we appreciate the exceptional commitment of the board members who are dedicating their time to contribute to the school’s success. Highly recommended for families seeking a supportive and enriching educational journey.

The principal is amazing ma sha Allah. The staff is wonderful ma sha Allah. Sadly, the board raised the tuition over $2,500 in the middle of the school year for the upcoming school yr and did not address the parents beforehand the decision.

The board meeting was scheduled after the re-enrollment period to where they said it was already a done deal. It was more of a public announcement than a school community discussion.:/

The board of this school appears to feel they have the ability to push the families that got them such great ratings and such a great history right out of the door with a 30% tuition increase. Without any concern for families financial needs. Truly unislamic in their practice and stance that the community can be replaced by others on the waitlist.

Additionally the disrespectful nature of the board and lack on transparency is disrespectful to the beautiful faith they are claiming to be working hard to instill within the school and the youth. They cannot account for roughly 8 million dollars or provide any insight to where the money goes.

When they received a large check for my children’s tuition this past year it mysteriously disappeared until we kept pushing it be found. Ultimately to find out it had been placed in an employee’s 401k account in “error”

During this board meeting the phrase that stuck out to me was “brand recognition”. This tells me they have no desire in running a school they want to run a business even at the expense of many children.

My children have been going here for over 7 years. Staff have come and gone and I have nothing but positive things to say about them. Alhamdulillah However, this year things have took to a turn of events.

We were invited to a Town Hall meeting by the board that we haven't met with in 4 years only to tell us that they are increasing our tuition by 30%.
1. They have not validated this by telling us what we get in return for paying them 30% more. If you want to charge us more, then we must RECEIVE more from an education standpoint.
2. The board's responses in the meeting were condescending and harsh. Telling us basically that if we don't pay then someone else will. Wow. How Islamic!
3. They boasted about how many children are on the waiting list. So basically they care more about the incoming students than the ones who have been apart of the school for YEARS.
4. They said they will remove children with grades not up to par. Again. How Islamic! One board member brother said "tell your kids to do well and stay in line" then they won't have an issue. This could have been said in a different way.

I see some other recent reviews trying to overshadow the REAL turn of events trying to make things seem all glitz and glamour. They are probably board members or board member's wives writing it. Don't cover up the truth!

And now guess what, if we pay more then we will EXPECT more. Get ready for stressed out staff and parents. Which will in turn create an UNHEALTHY environment overall. And who is the beneficiary of this stress? The Children!

Sad reality for UAF.

I recently had the privilege of being part of the Universal Academy of Florida (UAF) community in the Tampa Bay Area, and my overall experience has been incredibly positive.
The school strongly emphasizes academic excellence, with a well-rounded curriculum integrating Islamic teachings with standard subjects. The teachers are dedicated and go the extra mile to ensure students grasp academic and religious knowledge. One of the standout features of UAF is its supportive community; parents, teachers, and students collaborate to create an environment where everyone feels valued. The school excels in seamlessly integrating Islamic values into everyday learning; from Morning Athkar to classroom discussions, there's a consistent effort to instill moral and ethical principles, providing students with a strong foundation in both academic and spiritual realms.
Beyond academics, the school offers various extracurricular activities, whether sports, arts, or community service, students have ample opportunities to explore their passions and develop a well-rounded skill set. The school actively encourages parental involvement, recognizing parents' crucial role in a child's education. Regular meetings, events, and volunteer opportunities create a collaborative partnership between the school and parents.
In conclusion, my time at UAF has been enriching and fulfilling. The school's commitment to academic excellence, community spirit, and the integration of Islamic values make it a standout choice for those seeking a holistic education for their children in the Tampa Bay Area. I highly recommend UAF to families seeking a nurturing and supportive educational environment.

Alhamdulillah, I’m so grateful to be part of UAF family. I love the Islamic environment, adab, Islamic manners, and the education the school provides for our children. May Allah reward the principle, board members, staff, and teachers for their pure and sincere intention and efforts to provide the best for our children.

We have experience with all major Islamic schools in the Tampa Bay Area. We actually transferred our children from the other two schools over to UAF. UAF is heads and shoulders above the other two islamic schools. It is on par with other private schools in Tampa. I think the school is planning to add more resources towards improving Arabic and Quran courses.

Absolutely one of the best schools in the world, not just Tampa. From admins to teachers to any staff member. Not only are they kind but competent and professionals! This is my second year at the school and it just keeps getting better. I already see such a positive change in my children academically and spiritually.

Love, love, love UAF! Prepares kids for college and reaffirms their religious identity and sense of community and belonging. It’s a wonderful school!

I love UAF so much. If you are a parent and want to send your kid here, it would be the best decision of your life. The teachers here give you life-long lessons that will help you in your life. The students in this school have a clear islamic character. The admin, teachers, and alumni are so kind and whoever exits this school will be very happy. I can't tell any of you how much UAF means to me. It's the place where I found my first friends and found the amazing teachers there. UAF's activities and classes are always so dynamic and fun. You learn so much from here, even if it's your first day or your 9th year. Another thing to mention, UAF is the reason why writing this review is possible. UAF is such an amazing school and I wanna say thank you to the teachers, security, and admin of the school. I can't forget the Board of UAF either. It's the whole reason why the school was created in the first place. Have a good day!

My favorite friend is indeed Saad ibn abdulaziz ibn ali ismail ibn shik shak sho shawarma man bala wala fan bebsi fan and cocacola. This school is also a school

This school is amazing mashallah, I have been going for almost 7 years and each year got way better and improved. UAF has been the best school i have been to. Very recommended for parents who want their kids to learn more about Islam.

Excellent school. My kid goes here and InsAllah my other kid will go next year. Islamic school as its best. Bring your kids here away from public school. You won't be sorry. Everyone is so friendly and nice.

Amazing never felt low here i love it so much made a lot of good friends here and teachers and staff are amazing

I would definitely consider this the most qualified and best Islamic School that I know of. The majority of the teachers are friendly, productive and very lenient in the context of academics. The administrators are strict in a positive manner and try their best in resolving issues that may pose a threat to the education of the other students. Anyone who comes to the school looking for knowledge religiously and academically is satisfied, and those who act as if UAF is a public school are quickly and efficiently dealt with. The referral system enforces the safe environment positively and to me, presented flawlessly, and even when one goes through it for their behavior, they are dealt with accordingly to their age, and capabilities in a lenient, calm manner. The classrooms are well kept and unique, and nobody ever complains about technical problems as most are dealt with before anyone realizes they exist (Thanks to the amazing maintenance team). Students are encouraged throughout the year to strive above average, with many classes being for a grade above, and those who aren't capable of meeting those honor class standards are approached within their capabilities. Lastly, the reason UAF strives over the other public and some Islamic schools is because of their methods of teaching religiously. Islamic studies are taught to where students are well educated on their religion even if they had no prior knowledge. Within this secular country, this subject is very needed, so students don't lose their religious values. Arabic and Quran are taught from the student's level, which is amazing, so one class isn't slowed down by students who have later beginnings or Arabic isn't spoken much in their households. Academically, the school is amazing.

Now from a student's perspective, their fellow colleagues may have imperfections, no matter where you go, you will always find people cursing, being racist or generally acting inappropriately. However, UAF does not tolerate this inappropriate behavior and deals with these students as soon as uncovered. Usually this doesn't interfere academically, especially because people who fit these characteristics are very few. UAF did have a racism problem, mainly because of the minority races within the school, however these things are quickly resolved and dealt with heavily. Same for bullying, bullying along with racism is not taken lightly in school, so your kids wont have a problem coming home with tears in their eyes, and even if such things happen, UAF has amazing counselors who help students deal with their mental issues.

Students like me will always have a special place in their hearts for UAF. I recommend this school to anyone looking for better opportunities. Thanks UAF for everything.

P. S. My real name is not Akram Homsi, just know im a student at the Universal Academy of Florida, with satisfied parents, and a unique bond with this school.

This school truly deserves 5 stars. The school has helped me develop social skills such as communicating being able to stand strong and talk confidently. I am proud to be a part of it. A very Nice school I recommend this.

The best thing I did was choosing UAF for my kids. May Allah reward everyone for their hard work.

Worst school ever. They will endanger your kids. They have favoritism and the management will only help if you make donations to the school.
They think they are Muslims but they are far away from ISLAM.
Stay AWAY from this place for the well beings of your kids.

Best Islamic School in the nation! So blessed to have my four kids attend/graduate from this institution. Their goal is "Allah First" and is reflected in the school. If you truly value both Tarbiyah and Academics, this is the school for your kids. The leadership, teachers, the culture, everything is above and beyond in every way. Everyone is working with Ihsaan and giving their best. We love this school with our heart and soul, Alhamdolillah and feel so blessed to be a part of this beautiful community.