About Us

Who We Are

South Florida School of Excellence (SFSE) is a private, non-sectarian, co-educational school in Opa-locka serving students from Pre-K3 through 12th grade, with a capacity of up to 500 students. Developed as one of the first clinical and educational models of its kind in Florida, SFSE brings academics and comprehensive student support together within a single, unified environment. SFSE is structured as a true “one-stop” private school experience, where education and student support are integrated rather than separated. Our academic model includes general education, special education, gifted instruction, and autism support, all within the same setting. Students learn in a structured and inclusive environment while receiving individualized support tailored to their specific needs.

We follow a Florida-accredited curriculum across all grade levels, supported by established platforms such as Edgenuity, Unique Learning System, FLVS FLEX, and i-Ready for math and reading. Instruction is designed to be structured and academically rigorous, with a focus on building strong foundations and encouraging critical thinking. There is also a strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), along with Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Community-Based Learning (CBL). These approaches help students connect classroom concepts to real-world situations while developing problem-solving skills and independence. Technology is part of daily instruction, with each student provided a personal Chromebook, headphones, and communication devices when needed, supporting accessibility and engagement across different learning styles.

SFSE operates from a centrally located campus within the Opa-locka City Hall building, offering a 22,500-square-foot facility across two floors which are second and third. The campus includes 25 classrooms, a dedicated cafeteria, and a fully equipped library. The layout is intentionally organized to support both structure and flexibility, with clear separation of grade levels and specialized programs while maintaining a connected school community. Students also participate in daily physical education at Sherbondy Park in Opa-locka, with transportation provided to ensure consistent access to outdoor activity that supports physical health, social development, and overall well-being. Students’ breakfast and lunch are provided by a certified school meal provider, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to nutrition standards. To support a safe and transparent environment, surveillance cameras are installed in every classroom and are monitored live by school staff, with parents able to view their child during the school day from designated areas in the front lobby on both the second and third floors. The campus is further secured with a 24/7 security guard at the main entrance, along with surveillance systems throughout the interior and exterior of the facility, helping maintain a safe and well-monitored school environment.

SFSE serves students with a wide range of learning profiles and academic goals, including general education students, students who are at-risk academically, students with disabilities, students on the autism spectrum, and gifted learners. Many families choose SFSE when they are looking for a more personalized and supportive alternative to traditional schools, one that can address both academic and developmental needs in one place. Our school community includes families from across Miami, Downtown Miami, Brickell, Wynwood, Miami Lakes, Miami Gardens, North Miami, Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Hollywood, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout South Florida who are seeking a private school that offers both structure and flexibility.

SFSE is built around a Multi-Dimensional Model that connects academics with clinical and therapeutic support throughout the school day. In addition to classroom instruction led by highly qualified educators and special needs specialists, students have access to a range of on-site services, including psychological evaluations, mental health therapy, speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), student case management, vocational rehabilitation training, nutrition monitoring, and dental and vision screenings. These services are provided by licensed and certified professionals and are coordinated as part of each student’s individualized plan, allowing for consistent communication and alignment between academic and support services. Student development at SFSE extends beyond academics, with a variety of clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities that give students opportunities to explore interests, build confidence, and strengthen social skills, including STEM Club, Arts & Crafts, Electronic Gamers, Chess, Pokémon, Lego, Home Economics (play-based learning), Cooking, Fashion Design and Make-Up, Anime Club, Cheerleading, Spelling and Vocabulary Club, and sports such as basketball and flag football. These experiences play an important role in helping students develop independence, creativity, and readiness for life beyond school. At its core, SFSE focuses on supporting the whole child by combining strong academics, individualized support, and integrated services in one setting, giving students the structure and resources they need to grow both academically and personally.

Vision Statement

Our vision is that students leave school with:

Moral Values

DETERMINATION – INTEGRITY – PERSEVERANCE – INNOVATION

We aim to be a leading organization in the development and implementation of effective service programs and advocacy for individuals with disabilities and non-disabilities in Florida. Our mission is to create inclusive opportunities that empower individuals to succeed academically, socially, and professionally.

Our programs are designed to promote individual independence by supporting key areas such as post-secondary education, workforce development, employment readiness, housing support, and community enrichment. Through these initiatives, we help individuals build the skills and confidence needed to transition successfully into adulthood and independent living.

We believe that strong partnerships are essential to achieving this vision. The collaboration between schools, parents, and the community plays a critical role in delivering meaningful outcomes and long-term success. By working together, we create a supportive and inclusive environment where every individual can thrive.

Through our commitment to inclusive education in Florida and comprehensive support services, we continue to advocate for equal opportunities and improved quality of life for all individuals, regardless of ability.

What We Provide

General & Special Education

Gifted & Autism Center

The South Florida School of Excellence is dedicated to serving the educational and social-emotional needs of all students, including those who are average, at-risk, gifted, have disabilities, or are identified as autistic. As the first and only “one-stop shop” clinical and educational school in South Florida, we provide a fully integrated approach that supports every aspect of student development.

Our school delivers high-quality, structured academic programs with a strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEM). Through Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Community-Based Learning (CBL), students gain real-world skills that prepare them for college readiness and lifelong success.

We offer a unique combination of personalized curriculum led by highly qualified special education instructors, paired with assistive therapies provided by certified professionals. This approach ensures that each student’s intellectual, physical, and emotional needs are fully supported.

As part of our commitment to inclusive education, we provide a wide range of special education services in South Florida, including:

• Psychological evaluations
• Mental health therapy
• Speech and language therapy
• Occupational and physical therapy
• Applied Behavioral Therapy (ABA)
• Student case management services
• Vocational rehabilitation training
• Nutrition monitoring
• Dental and vision screenings

These services are delivered by licensed providers and subcontractors, ensuring high-quality care and support.

Our school professionals are committed to preparing students for successful entry into higher education and the workforce. We believe that the future of a global society depends on nurturing both the minds and hearts of children.

Founded on the belief that every child can succeed, the South Florida School of Excellence empowers students to develop the skills, confidence, and motivation needed to pursue meaningful careers and fulfilling lives.

Three major individualized program instructions are offered:

Our college prep curriculum is designed to encourage critical thinking while placing a strong emphasis on developing essential intellectual skills and mastery across core content areas. Through a structured and engaging approach, students build the analytical abilities and academic foundation needed for success in higher education and beyond.

Our academic intervention programs for learning disabilities are designed to support students who may be experiencing challenges in their learning development.

Our program is dedicated to providing high-quality special needs education in South Florida for students with specific learning disabilities, autism, emotional behavioral disorders, and developmental disabilities. We focus on creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

The curriculum is carefully designed to equip students with the skills, confidence, and passion needed to pursue innovative and meaningful paths after graduation. By emphasizing critical thinking, independence, and real-world application, we prepare students to become contributing members of 21st-century society.

In addition to academics, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities for special needs students both on and off campus. These programs encourage creativity, teamwork, and personal development.

Students can participate in activities such as:

• Environmental Club and Science Fair Club
• Publishing Center and Student Council
• Safety Patrol and leadership programs
• Music, Chorus, Drama, and Dance
• Gymnastics, Karate, and Soccer Club
• Visual and performing arts programs

These student enrichment programs help build confidence, social skills, and well-rounded development, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to explore their interests and talents.

Other highlights of our campus include: