MAYA Faculty

Administration

Sr. Hala

Sr. Hala Hazimi is the current the interim principal of MAYA School.  Her educational background speaks for itself.

  • Associates of Arts Degree (Henry Ford Community College under a full academic scholarship)
  • Bachelors of Arts Degree (University of Michigan)
  • Teaching Certificate (State of Michigan)
  • Middle School Math Endorsement (State of Michigan)
  • Masters in Public Administration with a concentration in Education Administration (University of Michigan)
  • Administrators Certificate for grades K-12 (State of Michigan)

Sr. Hala became part of the MAYA family in August of 2002. She was a very influential 5th grade teacher for five years as well as a middle school math teacher for one year.  During her last two years of teaching, she took on the role of Assistant Principal as a part-time position before becoming a full time administrator.  As a teacher, she was able to pass along her belief that the key to a good education begins with organization and responsibility.  Her students not only excelled academically, but they gained confidence and communication skills both orally and in writing; traits that they can and will carry with them for future endeavors.

As an administrator, one of her main goals is to help take MAYA School to the next level by passing along any relevant information that she gained throughout her many years of learning, training, and teaching experiences.  Along with her many responsibilities as an assistant principal, she is also the assessment coordinator, one of the NCA team leaders, and the curriculum director by continuously aligning all core subject areas for grades K-8 to the State GLCEs, and making sure the teachers are adhering to them.  Sr. Hala is one of the most dedicated staff members at MAYA in her endeavor to help the school excel and prosper academically, Islamically, and completely for the future of the students.

She says that: “Allah (s.w.t) has given me the opportunity and pleasure of working in such a sound, Islamic school doing what I love most…working with the children of our future and helping to mold them into fine, successful citizens carrying with them Islamic values (Inshallah).” 

Sr. LindaSr. Linda Charara has been part of the MAYA team since 2002.  She graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn in 2001, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Language Arts and Minor in Mathematics, and a Provisional Certification in Elementary Education.  Linda also received her Masters in the Arts of Education in 2007.  Linda has experience at various grade levels; she taught first, third and sixth grade. 

She is currently MAYA’s Resource Teacher.  In addition to teaching part-time in the classroom she also implements group interventions for students. Additionally, Linda is responsible for the teacher professional development and trainings. Linda is very dedicated to her students and her work.  She has a passion for teaching and enriching the lives of our students.  Linda’s goals are to see MAYA grow into an affluent and accredited Islamic school, which will not only teach our students academically but also instill Islamic values.  Linda is also the team leader for the North Central Accreditation process at MAYA.  Through the NCA accreditation MAYA will undergo school improvements.

Sr. Gada Sr. Gada Slim works in the front office at M.A.Y.A. where she handles some of the day to day operations. She received her Bachelor’s degree of Arts in Psychology from Wayne State University in May of 2000. Before coming to work at M.A.Y.A., Gada worked at the Islamic Center of America, as well as Charter One Bank.

Since Gada grew up in Garden City, a community not well acquainted with the Muslim values and Arab traditions, she understands the importance of maintaining ones Muslim identity. Although she has been involved in several community activities, she decided to make the M.A.Y.A. a fulltime commitment because she believes that children are the key to the future. Gada hopes that the Muslim American Youth Academy will continue to thrive and provide the community with a school to be proud of. 

Sr. Mona I received my Bachelor’s degree in the English language and literature from the Beirut Arab University in 1993. When I arrived in the US, I had the equivalency of a Bachelor’s degree.

I am in the process of taking classes at Henry Ford Community College in the field of education to receive a certificate in teaching at Michigan public or private schools. I long to continue my education, and I am committed to acquiring the Mary grove experience.   My goal is to advance into an administrative position at a school where student achievement is a priority.

When I came to Michigan, I worked as an Arabic teacher for KG, 2nd, 3rd and 4th grades at The Muslim American Youth Academy for two years. Then I was the secretary and office manager of the Islamic Center of America Ford Road in Dearborn.

Now I am the administrative office assistant at The Muslim American Youth Academy. I am so satisfied by my position because it gives the opportunity to learn more about administration that I hope one day I would have the chance to be an administrator of a school.

Sr. Rima Finance Department

Sr Rima feels very fortunate to have a job at the Finance Department that provides her with kinds of challenges within the Islamic environment.

Sr. Rima has a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Davenport University & she is currently working on her Masters Degree in Finance.

 

 

Resource Teachers

Sr. AlyseSr. Alyse Meier graduated from the University of Michigan Dearborn in 2006 after completing her student teaching with MAYA in 4th grade. She has her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a major in language arts and a minor in social studies. She is certified from the state of Michigan in K-6 with a language arts endorsement for middle school. Sr. Alyse has worked with children for many years and at a variety of levels.

Sr. Alyse has taught 5th grade at MAYA in the past and is currently working as the English Resource teacher. Additionally, she helps with assessments and monitors student progress. Sr. Alyse services children from Kindergarten through 5th grade in the resource room focusing on reading and writing. Also, Sr. Alyse is teaching 6th grade boys language arts and math. Sr. Alyse is very dedicated to her students. She hopes to teach her students to be independent responsible and self-motivated. She believes in a hand on approach to learning and engaging students which combines imagination and creativity. She believes each child should be challenged to reach their highest level of potential.

Sr. Alyse believes that all students can learn. She holds each student to high expectations and expects them to rise to the occasion. Sr. Alyse believes learning must be made meaningful. The students in Sr. Alyse’s class no only learn critical thinking skills essential for academic success but also learn to work together through respect in a cooperative classroom community.

Sr. Mirna SaadSr. Mirna Saad is the Arabic resource teacher at the Muslim American Youth Academy.

Sr. Mirna graduated from the American University of Beirut with a Bachelor’s degree in social and behavioral sciences. She later pursued a degree in special education.  This gave her a fresh perspective on teaching techniques. 

Sr. Mirna said, “As a teacher, I believe in teaching my students according to their own strengths and abilities.”  She also emphasizes strengthening the relationship between parents and teachers to help students acquire the Islamic and Arabic knowledge they need to develop a well-rounded Islamic identity.

Pre-K Teachers

Sr. Salwa Nezam

Sr. Salwa Nezam has been a teacher for over 20 years. She has a CDA and an Associates Degree in Early Childhood. Her continuing educational efforts include workshops in High Scope Training, Montessori Training, and NAEYC conferences. Sr. Salwa taught at Head Start for 13 years, and has been teaching preschool at M.A.Y.A. for the past seven years.

She believes that preschool years are the most precious years of a child’s life. Her ambition drives her to be very creative and energetic. She sets high, yet achievable goals to all of her students. Her compensation is to watch children learn as they grow. Her goal is to continue to educate children and help service their needs regardless of their diverse potentials.

 

Sr. Zeinab Makki

Sr. Zeinab Makki has been a preschool teacher at M.A.Y.A. for 6 years. She received her Child Development Associate (CDA) from Schoolcraft College. Prior to joining M.A.Y.A., Sr. Zeinab was a preschool teacher at Dearborn Head Start for 10 years. She also taught in the after-school Arabic programs as well as the Saturday school program at the Islamic Center of America for ten years. She continues to attend seminars related to child education and development.

Sr. Zeinab has also received specialized training including 4Cs, High Scope, and Montessori. With a strong background in child education and a great sense of Islamic values, Sr. Zeinab strives to ensure the mental and spiritual development of the young in her care.

 

Sr. Zeinab Ajrouche

Sister Zeinab Ajrouche has been teaching at MAYA School for the past 10 years. In 1997 she graduated from Schoolcraft College with an Associate in Early childhood. She has been an Arabic and Islamic teacher for the past 18 years.

From her experience she has learned to be aware of the feeling and emotions of the children. She believes the love of teaching will influence the children to enjoy learning through a positive style of teaching.

 

 

 

Sr. Hana Kdouh

Sr. Hana Kdouh is a pre-school teacher at the Muslim American Youth Academy.  She received her Child Development Association Certificate from Henry Ford Community College in May of 2004.  In addition to her academics, she has experienced and taught at two different schools; serving for the Universal American School in Kuwait and The British School of Kuwait from August 2004 to June 2007.

Sr. Hana’s philosophy is to bring a creative teaching style to the classroom through hands-on activities and lessons.  Her goal is to promote a successful environment not only for her students but for her parents as well. She will continue to provide her students with the latest teaching practice that will ensure a healthy and stimulating learning environment.

 

Sr. Dalal

Sr. Dalal Bazzi is a preschool teacher at the Muslim American Youth Academy.  She received her Child Development Associate degree from Henry Ford Community College. She’s very excited to be here and to share her love of teaching with our youngsters.  She feels that as a childcare provider she will be able to care and educate our nation’s future leaders.

Her goal as a childcare provider is to take care of children and educate them to enrich and develop their Islamic values.  As a parent she feels that she is learning how to be a great child care provider that will be complemented by her formal training at Henry Ford Community College
She truly believes that she is very professional, organized, and compassionate and that these virtues will allow her to be successful within this profession. Her intentions regarding this profession are completely pure, in that she is going into this profession because it is her life long dream.

Elementary Teachers

z_fardousSr. Zaina Fardous joined the MAYA community in 2007.  She was born and raised in Dearborn and is excited to give back to the community through teaching Kindergarten at MAYA School.

Sr. Zaina graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn with a major in Language Arts, a minor in Science, and a degree in Elementary Education in December 2006.  She earned her Provisional Teaching Certificate from the State of Michigan. Sr. Zaina then had the blessed opportunity to complete Hajj that same year.

Sr. Zaina has had extensive experience with students through practicum placements, student teaching, substituting, and teaching in various public and private schools. Sr. Zaina has also had the wonderful opportunity to have worked at the University of Michigan Child Development Center for several years giving her much experience and patience in early education.

Sr. Zaina wants to instill love for learning in her students, and enjoys teaching her students though motivating hands on lessons. She believes that all students have the capability and willingness to learn; that is why she feels it is essential for the teacher to set high standards for students to meet. Sr. Zaina feels it is imperative for the students to feel comfortable in class and enthusiastic about the lessons taught; therefore, she guides and praises her students every step of the way.

Sr. Fatme DMy name is Sister Fatme, I am a graduate of the University of Michigan with a Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration - Management from California State UniversityDominguez Hills, CA. I am certified by the State of Michigan in Grades K-5 all subjects, and K-8 self contained class. I also have a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential K-12 all subjects by the State of California. In addition to my academics, I have had experience in different school districts; serving for the Dearborn Public Schools, MI, and Murrieta/Corona Unified School Districts, CA. I was involved in the BTSA program (Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment), CPTIP (California Professional Teacher Induction Program), and participated in WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) Instructional Team.

I also have administered and evaluated all of the required formal assessment including the DRA2 (Developmental Reading Assessment), 3-day Writing Assessment using the 5th grade Writing Proficiency Benchmark Rubric, Gentry Spelling Tests, and District-wide Common Assessment in Dearborn Public Schools. Because of my extensive and diverse experience, I am able to bring a unique teaching style to the classroom by providing my students with the latest teaching methods and techniques that will ensure a wealthy learning environment.

I look forward to work with you and your child to have the opportunity to learn from one another as the year progress. I know this will be a wonderful and successful year. Please feel free to contact me for any questions or concerns you may have related to your child.

Sr. Fawzieh B

My name is Fawzieh Chokr Bazzi and I am a first grade teacher at MAYA school.  I have been at Maya School for three years and this is my first year teaching the first grade. I began my teacher training at Henry Community College where I received an Associate in Arts. I then attended the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where I received my provisional certificate in December of 2006, with state endorsements in Language Arts and Science from the state of Michigan to teach 6-8 grades.

Prior to teaching at MAYA I was a substitute in the Dearborn District. I worked in a variety of classrooms and grades.  I have taught students of all levels and this allowed me to find different ways and styles of teaching. My experiences are what allowed me to be a better teacher. I am currently pursuing my masters’ degree in special education to increase my education experience.

I try to provide a healthy teaching environment where students are not ridiculed if they do not know, but are encouraged to ask questions to get their answers.  I am also a strong believer that students learn through hands on activities which I try to implement on a daily basis.  I believe that students deserve only the best education so that they may have long and successful academic careers.

Sr. Amira Swaydan

Sr. Amira is the first grade teacher at the Muslim American Youth Academy. She is a graduate of Wayne State University where she received her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education, majoring in Science. She is currently working on her Masters Degree at Wayne State focusing on English as a Second Language (ESL).
Her teaching experience includes subbing for the Dearborn Public Schools as well as volunteering in special education classrooms.

 

 

Sr. Saada Alaouieh

Sr. Saada Alaouieh has been part of the M.A.Y.A. team since 2004. She graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree and a Provisional Certification in Elementary Education. Three years later, she earned her Masters Degree in the Art of Teaching K-12.

Sr. Saada enjoys working with children. Her goal is to provide a learning environment that will maximize the potential for student success. This will give her the opportunity to apply concepts and strategies that will equip her classroom with the tools and knowledge that allow her students to meet their needs.

 

Abir Saad

Sr. Abir Saad is a graduate of the University of Michigan-Dearborn with her bachelors in Elementary Education and a major in Mathematics and a minor in Science. She received her Masters Degree in Education focusing on Middle School Mathematics with Leadership in 2008.  She received her Professional Certificate in the summer of 2009, with state endorsements in both Mathematics and Sciences.

Sr. Abir is a second grade teacher at the Muslim American Youth Academy. She has been part of the M.A.Y.A family since 2006. Prior to joining M.A.Y.A., she worked in Dearborn Public Schools and in various other charter schools. She has worked with children for many years in multiple capacities. She has experience teaching students at many levels. Her experiences have taught her valuable lessons to implement in her classroom.

Sr. Abir works very hard to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for her students to grow and learn. She believes that all children can and will learn, with the right guidance and support, children will reach and exceed their full potential.

Sr. Amal Bakri

Sr. Amal Bakri is a graduate of the University of Michigan-Dearborn.  She is working on her masters in Bilingual Education.  She is certified through the state of Michigan to teach K-5.  Teaching is her passion and her goal is for the students to become educated and successful people in the real world.

M.A.Y.A. School was Sr. Amal’s first assignment.  Even though she is a first year teacher, she has acquired plenty of experience with the way the school is run.  She understands the goals and ambitions that the M.A.Y.A. School has.  She too wants to see M.A.Y.A. blossom into a prominent Islamic school that will be recognized not only locally but nationally as well.

 

Sr. Khadijah Shajrah is a third grade teacher at the Muslim American Youth Academy. She graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Science and minor in Language Arts. She also earned a Provisional Certification in Elementary Education K-5 all subjects (K-8 Self CC) and an endorsement in Integrated Science (DI) grades 6-8. Sr. Khadijah also earned a Masters degree in Special Education with a concentration in learning disabilities (K-12). She has worked for both Dearborn and Detroit public schools where she taught both fourth and second grade. This is her second year at MAYA School.

Her philosophy for learning is that each child is unique, and learns in a different way. She believes that her job as a teacher is to help her students discover their individuality and work alongside them to maximize it. She believes in hands-on experiences, learning creatively and learning through play.

Sr. Mai

Sr. Mai Bazzi has been teaching at MAYA since 2007.  She obtained her Bachelor in Arts at the University of Michigan-Dearborn where she also received the State of Michigan Elementary Provisional Certification.  She has a major in mathematics and a minor in science.  Sr. Mai also has the Michigan Mathematics (EX) and Science (DX) endorsements which allow her to teach mathematics and science in grades six through eight.  She worked for two years assisting students one-on-one building crucial skills needed to be successful students.  The University of Michigan requires all prospective teachers to complete a number of practicum experiences.  These experiences gave her the opportunity to design, develop and implement a wide variety of lessons at differing grade levels.  She completed her student teaching experience at Riverside Academy in a second grade classroom. 

It is her goal to combine her range of experience with her ability to be a compassionate, enthusiastic, intelligent teacher.  She believes that it is one of her responsibilities as a teacher is to make every student in her classroom recognize that they all have the potential to understand all concepts of all subjects. She feels that effective teachers do not simply transfer information; instead they involve the students in the learning process. Her lessons will revolve around student understanding where she will facilitate their learning and help each student understand concepts in creative and innovative ways.

Currently I am working on my Masters in Education at The University of Michigan-Dearborn.

 

Sr. Zeinab S

Sr. Zeinab Saghir is one of the fourth grade teachers at M.A.Y.A. She has been a part of the M.A.Y.A. staff since 2003. She received her Bachelors of Arts with a major in Science and a minor in Language Arts, and her Teacher Provisional Certificate from the University of Michigan-Dearborn in December of 2002. She has earned her Masters Degree in Arts of Education in 2007.

Sr. Zeinab believes that every child deserves the chance to learn in a unique and diverse environment. Her teaching methods include creativity, imagination, and hands-on activities, which integrate all subject matters across the curriculum.

 

Sr. Angela

Sr. Angela is a graduate of the University of Michigan-Dearborn.  She has a Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education with a major in Mathematics (K-8) and a minor in Language arts.  Sr. Angela also earned the Michigan Mathematics (EX) Endorsement. 

Sr. Angela became acquainted with the Muslim American Youth Academy through long-term substituting for fourth grade.  She was impressed with MAYA and felt at home.  Sr. Angela emphasizes student discipline and student achievement.

 

 

Middle School Teachers

Sr. Heidi

Sr. Heidi graduated from Oakland University in 2007 with a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and subject area endorsements in language arts, science and social studies.  She has experience in both self-contained and departmentalized classrooms and with engaging students in constructivist learning at all age levels. 

Sr. Heidi knows that all students are unique and by engaging multiple intelligences, students will become lifelong learners. Students with a love of learning will continue to strive for excellence throughout their lives. Sr. Heidi is proud to facilitate positive, exploration based learning that nurtures this lifelong pursuit.  She is also very eager to encourage students to develop a love of reading and writing, as well as learning how to communicate effectively using both the spoken and written word.  Sr. Heidi aims to prepare well-rounded students that are capable of acquiring and using knowledge to make a difference in the world.

Sr. Malak

My name is Malak Fardous. I was born and raised in Lebanon where I finished high school. I came to the U.S in 1999. I attended Henry Ford community college for 2 and a half years and then continued my education at the University of Michigan. I graduated with a bachelor of science in the areas of mathematic and chemistry. A year later, I received my teaching certificate for grades 6-12th.

I worked as a sub for Dearborn public school for more than two years. Currently besides teaching, I am working on my masters in special education for K-12. I have been happily married for 9 years. I have two children, a 6 years’ old girl and 2 years old boy. Teaching is my passion and I enjoy making a difference in my students’ lives.

 

Sr. Nancy

Sr. Nancy Rababeh has lived all of her life in Dearborn and in fact graduated from Fordson High School.  After high school Sr. Rababeh attended Madonna University and received a Bachelor of Science in Financial Administration.  After graduating from college she got married and had children.  She has two boys, a twelve year old and a nine year old.  Both of her sons attend Dearborn Public Schools.  When her youngest son started preschool, she decided to go back to school to become a teacher. 

Sr. Rababeh received her post-bachelor teacher certification from the University of Michigan-Dearborn.  She is certified to teach K-8th grade.  Her major is in mathematics and her minor is in social studies and she is certified to teach in both those subject areas. She is looking forward to helping her students excel in their academic career.

 

Sr. Behan

My name is Behan Daher.  I graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn with a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a focus in math and science.  I am currently attending the Master’s in Public Administration program at the University of Michigan-Dearborn

I taught sixth grade at MAYA school during the 2006-2007 school year.  I took a year off to spend time with Batool my daughter whom I had February of 2008.  I am happy to be back at MAYA in which I will be teaching middle school math for the 2008-2009 school year.

 

 

Special Teachers

Israa Safieddine – an Islamics teacher at the MAYA – graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn in 2005, where she majored in English literature and minored in political science.  She has worked as a substitute teacher for Dearborn Public Schools, a tutor for middle school students for the ACCESS 21st Century Program, and an assistant teacher for the ACCESS Summer Youth Program.

In June of 2006, she attended Jami’atul Zahraa (a renowned women’s Islamic university in Qom, Iran) where she took hawza courses and continued her Farsi studies.  When she returned to Michigan in early 2007, she continued her hawza studies at the Al-Qaem Institute, under the branch of I.M.A.M. (Imam Mahdi Association of Marjaeya).  She later worked for the Al-Qaem Institute as a Qur’an and Arabic teacher for women and taught Islamic laws (fiqh), Arabic, Islamic etiquette, and Qur’an to girls ages 6-14 at the MEHDI (Muslim Educational Howza and Dawa Institute).  She is currently in the process of earning a Master’s degree in public administration at the UM-D.

Sr. Israa’s goal as a teacher of Islamic studies at the MAYA is to instill love of Allah, the prophets (SAWS), and the infallibles (AS) in the hearts of her students, to emphasize the importance of developing a relationship with our beloved Imam Zaman (AJFS), to help her students recognize the imperfections of the soul (e.g. selfishness, arrogance, love of this world) as a first step to curing them (inshallah), to explain the concept of marja’iyya, to highlight the significance of remembering Allah and purifying one’s intentions, and to understand the value of living life as a Muslim in the true sense – regardless of location.  Depending on grade level, she will be focusing on several subject areas, such as the holy Qur’an (reading, memorizing, and interpretation), Islamic laws (fiqh), Islamic history, the roots of religion (aqaa’id), and Islamic etiquette (akhlaaq).

Br. Ahmad

Br. Ahmad Abadeh is an Arabic teacher at MAYA School. Br. Ahmad brings with him over 20 years of experience in teaching the Arabic curriculum. He is very excited to be part of the MAYA staff and eager to teach MAYA students Arabic, which is the language of the holy Quran.

Since he joined the MAYA staff, Br. Ahmad has made many contributions to the school. He believes in strong relationships between parents and teachers, which can have a positive impact academically and socially. His goal is to see the school grow and to be the leading school in the region, so when MAYA students leave the school, they will leave with a strong background in Arabic and Islamic. He believes that parents can play a very positive role in enhancing their children to excel by making sure the students come to school prepared, ready to learn, and leave MAYA making everyone, especially their parents, proud of them.

Br. Kadri

Br. Mohamad Kadri Elkhoja, born in Tripoli, Libya on March 27, 1949.
American Citizen, Married with 5 children, 3 Boys and 2 Girls
Bachelor Degree in Education, Philosophy, and Sociology in 1974.
Master Degree in Sociology from Michigan State University in November 1979 and PhD Candidate.
Member of Faculty of Higher Education Committee and Member and Secretary General of the Ibn Khaldun Committee for Social Studies from 1973 to 1974.
Arabic, Quran, Islamic Studies, Physical Education, and Calligraphy Teacher from January 20, 1988 to the present.
Member of the Committee of Arabic and Islamic Studies Curriculum and Head of the Department of Arabic and Quran from January 2001 to August 16, 2008. Also, Teacher and Head of Arabic Curriculum Committee 1989.
Assistant Principal 1988 and Principal of several Sunday Schools from 1997 to 2001.
Chief Editor or Al-Inqad (Political Arabic Magazine) from 1988 to 1994.
Calligrapher for several official newspapers and magazines in Libya and the United States from 1989 to 1991. Honored 1st place in Calligraphy in Libya in 1972.
Author of "The Arabic Calligraphy is the Arabic Second Language" (Unpublished) in 1974.
Author of Several Arabic books (Reading, writing And Grammar) Unpublished.
The love of calligraphy permeated my life. In Libya I was the first artist to exhibit calligraphy in 1971, 1972, and 1974. I later exhibited my calligraphy in 1976 at Michigan State University and at University of MichiganDearborn in 1998.
I invented a new technique of writing calligraphy in the Kufi Script allowing no empty space. I also invented the teaching of Nasikh Script in a circle dividing the letters into certain groups.
I also invented a new technique of teaching the rules of Tajweed.
I also have my own website (Libya4ever.com) which started in October 2004.

Br. Ameer

Hajj Abdulameer Hassan Al-Saadi was born in Kadhimiya, Iraq in 1949, where he completed his elementary, middle, and high school education. He also completed a college degree at Baghdad University in Physical Education in 1972. After that, he served in the military for 18 months as Lieutenant. In 1975, he was asked to serve as a professor at the college where he graduated.

In 1981, Br. Ameer received a scholarship from Indiana University for a Masters degree in physical education and finished his degree in 1983. Br. Ameer also completed all the required courses for his teaching certification and he passed his English and math tests. Unfortunately, upon his completion, he could not return to his home in Iraq, but rather worked at the IU campus from 1983 to 1994.

In 1994, Br. Ameer and his family moved to New York City. He was offered an Islamic/Arabic teaching position at Al-Khoei Foundation’s Al-Iman School where he fulfilled other duties as well. In 1999, he moved to Dearborn, Michigan and worked as the physical education teacher, as well as the Arabic department supervisor, at Star International Academy.
In the year 2000, Br. Ameer was blessed with the opportunity to join the MAYA School team where he still serves as an Islamic/Arabic teacher.

Sr. Nawal Fadlallah is the computer teacher at the Muslim American Youth Academy.

Sr. Nawal graduated from Fordson High School, than received her Bachelor in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Wayne State University. She has worked as an Engineer for Ford Motor Company, Visteon, and RBK Automation.
Sr. Nawal brings her real life experience to her classroom. She believes that all children can learn and that computer education is a very important part to succeed in our technology oriented society.

Sr. Brandi

Sr. Brandi graduated from Eastern Michigan University in April 2008. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Health Education. She student taught at Saline Area Schools and Ann Arbor Public Schools. She also has an endorsement in Adapted Physical Education. She did most of her field work in the Dearborn Public Schools.

Sr. Brandi has many certifications from the Red Cross. She is a certified instructor to teach Lifeguarding, Blood Borne Pathogens, First Aid, CPR-PR, Water Safety Courses and Canoeing.
Sr. Brandi joined the MAYA team in 2008. She is the coordinator for the boys Middle School basketball team, the after school activities program, and the Student Council, and is the girls Middle School soccer coach.  

Email Sr. Brandi at bdueweke @ yahoo.com

 

Br. Hussein Cheaib

Athletic Director

Br. Hussein Cheaib has been the Athletic Director at M.A.Y.A. for the past eight years. With 30 years of both playing and coaching soccer, Br. Hussein has displayed a natural love for sports. He began his career in 1974 as a player of the Lebanese National Team and came to The United States of America to participate in playing and coaching soccer. Br. Hussein’s extensive soccer experience and reputation has brought him to M.A.Y.A. as a head coach in 1999 for grades kindergarten through 8th grade.

In 1973, he received a silver medal for the 100m track and field. For a second time in 1974, he was given a silver medal for the 400m and 800m track and field. From 1974 – 1979 he was a part of the SAFA Club Professional. In 1982 he was one of the founders of the Lebanese American Club known as the Dearborn Star Soccer Club from 1982-1996. Since then he has participated in numerous coaching courses including the National B coaching course. Br. Hussein holds a “B” youth license form the Lebanese Soccer Federation, a USSF Youth License, and a NSCAA National Advance Diploma. Currently, he is the head coach of the U10, U11, and U14 Gold at Michigan Wolves and Hawks Soccer Club.

Maintenance

Br. Haitham

Br. Haissam attended al-Ikhaa School in Ruwais, Lebanon.

He currently maintains all MAYA facilities including all electrical, plumbing, heat, and construction needs.

Br. Haissam supervises the cleaning staff and also ensures that the hot lunch program is run effectively.

He also coordinates with the PTC needs and responds to the ongoing classroom maintanence of all classroooms.

Br. Haissam is also responsible for scheduling  all facility use and rental of the MAYA gymnasium.

Br. Haissam also works at the front desk of the Islamic Center of America and helps coordinate security efforts beween the ICofA and MAYA.

He joined us in 2007.

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