Welcome to University Neighborhood Middle School

(UNMS)

At University Neighborhood Middle School, we’re committed to nurturing the academic, social, and personal growth of every student our school. Our mission is to create a supportive environment where students develop confidence, a strong sense of self, and the skills needed to succeed in academically rigorous high schools. UNMS prepares students not only for their next steps in education but also for a lifetime of learning and growth.

Our Vision: Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

We envision a future where UNMS students become adaptable, independent learners equipped to make a meaningful impact in an increasingly global society. We empower students to set and reach meaningful goals, cultivating the skills, resilience, and character necessary for lifelong success.

Explore our site to learn more about our programs, vibrant community, and how we inspire students to reach their fullest potential. At UNMS, we believe in fostering the leaders of tomorrow, today.

Meet Our Principal

Dr. Laura Peynado-Castro

Dr. Peynado-Castro, known affectionately as Dr. P, leads UNMS with a passion rooted in her own inspiring journey. Originally from the Dominican Republic, she immigrated to the United States at age 12, joining New York City’s public school system. Her educational path led her to the College of the Holy Cross in Massachusetts, after which she returned to the New York City DOE as a dedicated Science teacher in the Bronx. By 2007, her leadership skills and dedication to students earned her a role as assistant principal at UNMS, where she became principal in August 2008.

Dr. P believes deeply in the transformative power of education, viewing it as essential to the academic, emotional, and physical growth of every child. A former NYC public school student herself, she credits a devoted group of educators for instilling in her a love of learning and a strong commitment to meaningful change. As principal, Dr. P works tirelessly to foster an inclusive, nurturing environment where each child feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. She is dedicated to building collaborative opportunities for all members of the UNMS community, affirming her belief that together, WE make the difference!

Her impressive academic credentials include a Doctorate in Education from the University of Pennsylvania and two Master’s degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University. Dr. P also spent three semesters as an instructor at Teachers College. Outside of UNMS, she is happily married to Dr. Angelo Mastropasqua—her college friend, confidant, and husband since 1998. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, sports, and especially running for causes close to her heart.

Dr. Peynado-Castro has been a member of the UNMS community since 2007.

Meet our Assistant Principal

Mr. Charles Testagrossa