Our Team

We are proud of our team! Together, they create a nurturing and engaging learning environment that supports each child’s academic, spiritual, and personal development.

Dr. Abdul Latif Sawah

Principal

With a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education (Special Education), multiple bachelor’s degrees, and over 35 years of experience in education, technology, and public service, I chose teaching because it is a calling, a way to educate, inspire, and guide the next generation. My classroom emphasizes practical, evidence-based learning that builds leadership, confidence, and life skills while nurturing students spiritually and intellectually. I am proud of my work with special needs students, teaching at the college level, and serving the community through roles as a SWAT medic, volunteer firefighter, and founder of a free medical clinic. Outside the classroom, I enjoy running and volunteering.

Favorite Quote: “And treat people with good character.”

Dr. Fawzia Gilani-Williams

Vice Principal for Academic Affairs

Dr. Gilani-Williams brings over two decades of experience in academic leadership, literacy development, and child-centered education. She holds a Ph.D. in English Literature and Language from the University of Worcester (UK), an M.Phil. in Islamic Study from the University of Birmingham (UK), and a B.Ed. (Hons) in Primary Education from the University of Wolverhampton (UK).

Dr. Gilani-Williams has served as a school principal in Canada and the United States, a teacher and curriculum coordinator in the UAE, and most recently as Cluster Librarian and Co-Chair of the Literacy Steering Committee for Bloom Education in the UAE, where she oversaw 13 schools and led literacy initiatives that transformed libraries into thriving hubs of learning.

As an acclaimed children’s author, Dr. Gilani-Williams has published more than 40 books worldwide. She is also the founder of the Eid Stories Institute, where she mentors writers and develops multicultural children’s literature.

In addition, she has pioneered the development of Islamic Critical Theory, a framework increasingly applied by Ph.D. students engaged in Islamocentric research, offering an important scholarly lens for exploring education, literature, and culture.

Haneen Shean

School Administration

Assalamu Alaikum, My name is Haneen Shean, I’m a Palestinian American originally from Brooklyn New York. I currently hold a Science degree. I am married with three children. In the past, I worked with children with disabilities. I love being around kids and watching their young minds flourish. I am dedicated to making sure the children have a safe and fun environment. I am thrilled to be around such a wonderful Muslim community and watch each child grow Inshallah.

Hakimah Boukhrissi

Math and Science Teacher

With a Ph.D. in Chemistry and a Master’s in Physical Science, I have dedicated the last 15 years to teaching Math and Science to middle school students (Grades 6–8). My classroom is built on a student-centered approach where we connect complex concepts to real-world situations, empowering students to become critical thinkers and confident problem-solvers. I am incredibly proud of my students' achievements, particularly their success at the Northeast Ohio Science and Engineering Fair. Outside of teaching, I love traveling, swimming, cooking, and—much to my students' surprise—riding roller coasters!"

Favorite Quote: “Whoever fears Allah, He will make a way out for him and provide for him from sources he could never imagine.”

Kawthar Amin

Homeroom Elementary Teacher

With a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications and a minor in Psychology, I have spent the last three years teaching ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies to third-grade students. I entered this profession because I truly love working with children and helping them grow not just academically, but in confidence, character, and self-belief. My classroom blends structure, clear expectations, and mutual respect with hands-on, engaging learning that connects concepts to real-life experiences. I am especially proud of guiding my students through a months-long social justice project that culminated in them delivering speeches at the Cuyahoga County Council—an extraordinary accomplishment for third graders and a moment I will never forget. I enjoy building strong relationships with my students and families, and I am committed to continuous professional growth so I can keep finding creative ways to inspire young learners. Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading, racing, hiking, traveling, trying new things, and advocating for social justice.

Favorite Quote: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Lina Aburaad

Arabic Language Teacher

With a Master’s in Education and six years of experience teaching Arabic and Qur’an Interpretation to grades 4–8, I chose this profession because I find deep purpose in helping students learn, grow, and build confidence. I am especially proud of launching a live Arabic program with another school, where students practiced speaking the language through Zoom—an experience that strengthened both their fluency and self-assurance. Teaching Tafseer is another highlight of my work; connecting Qur’anic lessons to students’ daily lives has had a meaningful impact, and hearing a student say they now “read and truly understand” the Qur’an is a moment I will never forget. My teaching centers on making learning practical, engaging, and transformative, and I am motivated each day by the progress I see in my students. Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading and exploring new ideas that enrich my personal and professional growth.

Favorite Quote: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.

Manal Alfaleh

Quran & Nooranyah Teacher

With eight years of experience teaching Qur’an and Noorania to KG–2nd grade students, I view teaching as a true honor and blessing. Inspired by the Prophet ﷺ’s guidance to learn and teach the Qur’an, I focus on helping students connect with its words, build good values, and gain confidence in their learning. One of my most memorable moments was seeing a beginner student read a full verse correctly with Tajweed for the first time—a powerful reminder of how patience and encouragement transform learning. My classroom is friendly, supportive, and hands-on, helping students enjoy the process while understanding how the Qur’an relates to their daily lives. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, listening to the Qur’an, cooking, sewing, and spending time with family and friends.

Favorite Quote: “And say, ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge.’” (Ta-Ha: 114)

Khitam Aldur

Arabic Language Teacher

With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a Professional Master’s in Arabic, I have spent the past six years teaching Arabic to students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. As a mother of four fluent Arabic speakers, I understand the importance of fostering a strong connection to the language from an early age. My classroom focuses on hands-on, conversational learning that builds both confidence and practical skills. I am especially proud of watching students progress from learning letters to writing sentences and conversing comfortably with their peers—a rewarding reminder of why I teach. Outside the classroom, I enjoy creating new recipes, exploring Arabic history, and spending time with my family.

Favorite Quote: “Whoever strives, succeeds; and whoever stays on the course will reach their destination.”

Sarah Memon

Homeroom Elementary Teacher

With a Bachelor’s in Elementary and Special Education and a Master’s in Reading Education, I have spent the past nine years teaching 2nd and 6th grade students in ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies. I chose teaching because I love helping young learners grow, gain confidence, and develop a love for learning. My classroom is a safe and supportive space where students feel encouraged to explore, make mistakes, and discover their potential. I am especially proud of helping students develop foundational reading and writing skills and seeing them apply coping strategies to succeed in the classroom. Outside of teaching, I enjoy working out, attending book clubs, spending time with family and friends, and exploring new places with my husband.

Favorite Quote: “Verily with hardship comes ease.” (Quran 94:5)

Amani Hamdallah

Homeroom Elementary Teacher

With a Bachelor’s in Communication and a Master’s in Science Management, I have spent the past twelve years teaching English, Math, Science, and Social Studies to first-grade students. I chose teaching because it allows me to make a meaningful impact and connect with students as individuals. My classroom focuses on curiosity, exploration, and integrating our deen into learning, helping students grow academically and personally. I am especially motivated by seeing the moments when concepts click and students’ excitement for learning shines through. Outside the classroom, I enjoy taking classes, learning new things, and embracing adventurous experiences like skydiving.

Favorite Quote: “Have you not considered how Allah sets forth a parable: a good word is like a good tree, its root is firmly fixed and its branches in the sky.” (Surah Ibrahim 14:24)

Dalia Hamed

Islamic Studies Teacher

With a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and Interpretation from Azhar University, I have spent the past twenty years teaching Islamic Studies to students in grades 2–8. Teaching is my passion because it allows me to touch hearts, shape minds, and help students build a strong connection with Allah. My classroom focuses on making Islamic teachings relatable and engaging through storytelling, reflection, and discussion, while encouraging kindness, honesty, and responsibility. I am especially proud when students begin praying consistently, memorizing surahs, and applying Islamic values in their daily lives. Outside the classroom, I enjoy coloring, art, fashion, watching cartoons, and spending time with my three daughters.

Favorite Quote: Teaching Islam is not just about academics, it is a chance to plant seeds of Iman that grow far beyond the classroom.

Sally Abdelnabi

Quran & Nooranyah Teacher

With a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and over seventeen years of experience teaching Quran, Tajweed, and Nooraniyah, I have had the privilege of guiding students from PK3 through 8th grade. Teaching Quran is a continuous form of charity (صدقة جارية) for me, and I focus on helping students apply what they learn to their daily lives while building love and confidence in reading and memorization. I am especially proud of teaching new learners, including non-Arabic speakers and converts, from scratch and watching them grow spiritually and academically. Outside the classroom, I enjoy cake decorating, chocolate, coffee, and sharing joyful moments with my students.

Favorite Quote: “The best among you is the one who learned the Quran and teaches it.”

Sumayya Zraiqat

Kindergarten Teacher

With a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and nine years of experience as a Kindergarten homeroom teacher, I chose this profession because my heart has always been with children and their curiosity. I love nurturing, inspiring, and helping each child discover what they are capable of. My classroom is a safe, engaging space where students build confidence, explore through hands-on activities, and develop a love of learning. One of my proudest moments was when my students published their own book about Eid, sharing their work with families and celebrating their achievements. Outside the classroom, I enjoy decorating my home, planning family gatherings, traveling, and singing playful songs with my students.

Favorite Quote: “And after hardship comes ease.” (Quran 94:6)

Salsabeel Al Rab

Pre-K Teacher Assistant

With a background in Pharmacy and two years of experience as a Pre-K assistant teacher, I chose this profession because of my love for helping children grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually while guiding them in the teachings of Islam. I am especially proud of teaching my students how to perform Salah and Wudu, and watching them gain confidence in reading, writing, and daily routines. My classroom is a loving, supportive space where students feel valued, safe, and encouraged to explore and learn. Outside the classroom, I enjoy coloring, decorating, swimming, and watching cartoons alongside my students.

Favorite Quote: “The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.”

Areyj Badr El Deen

Pre-K Teacher

With a Bachelor’s degree and a Diploma in Islamic Studies, along with over 13 years of experience in education and early childhood development, I teach English, Math, Science, and Islamic Studies to Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 students. I chose this profession because I love seeing children grow, explore, and discover new things every day. My classroom is hands-on and curiosity-driven, where lessons are connected to daily life and students develop life skills, social skills, and a love for learning about Allah and the Prophet ﷺ. One of my favorite moments was turning a simple encounter with a grasshopper into a full exploration of nature and creation, inspiring wonder and learning. Outside the classroom, I enjoy graphic design, filmmaking, arts and crafts, and nature trips.

Favorite Quote: “The believer is like rain; wherever it falls, it benefits.”

Haneen Abdeljawad

Pre-K Teacher

With a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and nine years of experience teaching Pre-K students, I chose this profession because I love guiding children in their first steps of learning and helping them build confidence and a passion for knowledge. I focus on creating a safe, playful, and interactive classroom where students can learn Arabic through games, hands-on activities, and daily practice. One of my proudest moments is when parents share that their child imitates them at home and says, “I want to be like my Arabic teacher one day.” Outside of teaching, I enjoy traveling and trying new experiences.

Favorite Quote: Teaching is not just a job, but a message and a passion I live every day.

Haron Usman

Quran Teacher

With dual Bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Islamic Studies, I have spent the past five years teaching Quran and Tafseer to students in grades 3–8. I chose this profession because I love witnessing my students’ growth and helping them build fluency and understanding in reading the Quran. One of my proudest moments is seeing students read independently after starting with just the letters. My classroom emphasizes practice, repetition, and connection to the teachings of Islam, inspiring students to develop both knowledge and character. Outside of teaching, I enjoy cooking and playing video games.

Favorite Quote: “The best of you is the one who learns the Quran and teaches it.”

Talah Wahdan

Elementary Homeroom Teacher

With a Bachelor of Science in Education and two years of experience teaching 5th grade, I chose teaching because it has always been a part of my life—growing up watching my mother teach inspired me to follow in her footsteps. I love helping students learn, grow, and discover their potential, and one of my proudest moments was stepping into a middle school classroom during my first year and succeeding beyond my comfort zone. My classroom is supportive and safe, where students feel valued, challenged, and encouraged to build confidence and achieve their goals. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, writing, spending time with my family, and listening to podcasts.

Favorite Quote: “And whoever relies upon Allah, then He is sufficient for him.”

Lara Alghalayin

Elementary Homeroom Teacher

Salamu Aalaykum, My name is Lara Alghalainy and I am one of the homeroom teachers this year! I recently graduated with my bachelor’s degree in primary education from Cleveland State University. I have spent the last few years student teaching and substituting, I am very happy to be teaching at Ummah™ Center School. I attended Islamic Schools in America as a child. So, I know the difference a good Muslim community has on a growing child. I am very passionate about education; I was awarded Dean’s List and honor’s merit every semester at school. I’m also passionate about creating a safe and comfortable environment for the children where they all feel welcome and can grow to be their best selves. I am excited to partner with you all for a successful school year inshallah!