The NUA's mission is to substantiate in the public schools of urban America an irrefutable belief in the capacity of all children to reach the highest levels of learning and thinking demanded by our ever-changing global community.

The NUA approach is guided by the Pedagogy of Confidence®, the fearless expectation and support for the high intellectual performances of all students, especially those who are dependent on the school and community for achievement. We uncover strengths of students and teachers and then emphasize building on those strengths.