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Tahseen Syeda
Interim Director
Tahseen Syeda holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and brings a wealth of expertise in Montessori education and community service. Having homeschooled her daughters using the Montessori approach, she is dedicated to fostering a nurturing, child-centered environment at Mishkah. In her work with the Islamic Association of Raleigh, Tahseen has coordinated impactful community programs, youth initiatives, and dawah activities. As a certified life coach, her skills in project management and personal development further strengthen her leadership, allowing her to guide students and staff with compassion and vision.
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Dr. Ola Eltaibani
Lead Teacher, EC2
Dr. Ola Eltaibani, originally from Alexandria, Egypt, spent part of her childhood in Saudi Arabia. She previously served as an Associate Professor in Early Childhood Education at Alexandria University, specializing in education for exceptional children. With over 30 years of experience—including collaborations with UNICEF and the Egyptian Ministry of Education—Dr. Ola has trained teachers in Montessori methods. Her deep expertise in child psychology fuels her passion for early childhood education.
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Dr. Sumaiyah Zafar
Lead Teacher, EC1
Born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Sumaiyah Zafar holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree and recently relocated to North Carolina from Singapore. Her passion for positively shaping young lives aligns with the Montessori method’s emphasis on nurturing independence and strength in children. Additionally, she holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Care Education, further enriching her impact in the classroom.
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Salwa Zenhom
Lead Teacher, EC3
Born in Egypt and raised in the U.S., Salwa Zenhom settled in North Carolina in 2018 after living in several states. Her journey with Montessori began in 2003, leading her to earn a degree in Early Childhood Development and complete her Montessori training in 2016 at the Northern Virginia Montessori Institute. Since 2020, she has also been studying Unani Tibb and Somatic Therapy. Salwa recharges through time in nature, with family, and caring for her beloved cats.
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Heidi Hassan
Assistant Teacher, EC3
Heidi Hassan holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Wake Tech and a Bachelor’s degree in Languages from Egypt. She brings a diverse background in both Islamic and Montessori preschool settings. Heidi is passionate about fostering each child’s growth and is excited to contribute to the Mishkah team.
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Hend Farahat
Lead Teacher, Pathfinders
Originally from Egypt, Hend Farahat graduated with a medical degree from Ain Shams University. With experience teaching various age groups, she values education as a means to empower students and help them become productive members of their communities. Hend looks forward to creating meaningful memories with her students at Mishkah.
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Leila Mnider
Aftercare
Leila Mnider, who recently moved to North Carolina from Omaha, has over seven years of experience in childcare. Known for her strengths in organization, empathy, and patience, she loves supporting children at each stage of development. Leila is eager to build lasting relationships with the students and families at Mishkah.
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Rawda Zineddin
Quran Program
Recently relocated from Egypt, Rawda Zineddin brings a background in childcare, business management, and Quran instruction. She is passionate about fostering a strong foundation in Islamic education and looks forward to inspiring Mishkah’s students in their spiritual growth.
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Muhammad Ata
Security Officer & Facility Manager
As the Security Officer and Facility Manager, Muhammad Ata is dedicated to ensuring the safety and upkeep of our school environment. His role is motivated by a love for the job and the joy he finds in the children’s daily presence.
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Fatima Sadoun
Youth Program Coordinator
Fatima Sadoun holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a focus on childhood development and education. Her background includes roles as a substitute teacher, summer camp director, and after-school care coordinator. Currently, she leads Islamic programs for girls ages 6-18 and has seven years of experience tutoring students from diverse backgrounds. Raised in Saudi Arabia, Fatima values cultural diversity and integrates her knowledge of Arabic and Islamic principles into her teaching. She is passionate about supporting each child’s growth and is honored to bring her skills to Mishkah.
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