Oklahoma Islamic Academy
Oklahoma's Finest Private Islamic School
OIA's teachers are all trained in Great Expectations https://www.greatexpectations.org/
Inspiring Muslim American Students of Today into Future Leaders of Tomorrow
a 501 C 3 non profit organization
Our Team
Mrs. Suzan Khaimi, Principal
Mrs. Suzan M. Khaimi, M.Ed was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. In 2006, Suzan moved to Edmond, Oklahoma in pursuit of her graduate education as well as her husband Mahmoud's career in medicine. Upon graduation from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Master's in School Administration (Educational Leadership), Mrs. Suzan co-founded IQRA Center of Oklahoma (ICO) in 2012, an organization dedicated to the teaching of Quran, Arabic & Islamic Studies.. After 8 years of dedication and service to the Oklahoma Muslim Community, ICO expanded and re-branded its program, embarking on a contemporary and cutting-edge approach to Islamic Education.
This marked the beginning of Oklahoma Islamic Academy, a vision that Mrs. Suzan developed with her amazing and highly-qualified team over several years. Mrs. Suzan believes in a flexible and tailored educational plan for each student, with the blended use of digital streaming, quality academic curriculum, dedicated teachers and an emphasis on the Muslim American identity. Mrs. Suzan also holds a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology and Language, Literature & Writing from Eastern Michigan University. Mrs. Suzan continues to involve herself and her faculty in continuing education and professional development and is committed to serving the Oklahoma Muslim community with excellence.
Mrs. Sana Hanif, Assistant Principal
A graduate from the University of Oklahoma and certified in Elementary Education, Mrs. Sana Hanif has worked as a math interventionist at Kennedy Elementary School in Oklahoma. Mrs. Sana also has several years of teaching experience as a 3rd and 5th grade teacher at both Kennedy Elementary and StoneRidge Elementary School in Oklahoma. In addition to her extensive teaching experience, Mrs. Sana has a vast amount of experience leading and conducting professional development seminars for educators. Mrs. Sana has also received training in the Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute, as well as Dr. Robert Marzano Teacher Training Program and Great Expectations. Mrs. Sana is passionate about developing relationships and teaching students with innovative techniques in a student-centered learning environment. Mrs. Sana believes in employing creativity as a means to engage student curiosity while embedding a lifelong love of knowledge in children.
Mr. Mahmod Elshref, Custodial Engineer
Mr. Mahmod Elshref is one of OIA's most reliable and responsible team members. Mr. Mahmod is responsible for running and maintaining OIA's three state-of-the-art buildings. In continual collaboration with our school's administrators, Mr. Mahmod avidly monitors and maintains the building premises, facilities, and equipment. Mr. Mahmod's essential role makes him an integral reason why OIA operates so smoothly. With his precision and diligence, Mr. Mahmod commands the responsibility of maintaining and operating our systems in a manner befitting the prestigious reputation of OIA. Mr. Mahmod is one of the most valuable members of the OIA team.
Mrs. Ansam Ibrahim, Office Manager
Mrs. Ansam Ibrahim is a graduate of Biology at the University of Central Oklahoma, with a love for sciences and mathematics. She also happens to be OIA's "right arm." In addition to being extremely reliable and organized, Mrs. Ansam also knows how to adapt well to OIA's dynamic and highly energetic environment. Mrs. Ansam is always willing to lend a hand, or step-in wherever she may be needed, keeps our office and school matters in order, and is a very friendly-face for our parents and students. Mrs. Ansam's leadership skills and her ability to always "make things happen" make her an invaluable part of the OIA administrative team.
Ms. Neveen Bashiti, Lead Teacher
Ms. Neveen Bashiti was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri and has lived both in the States as well as abroad. Ms. Neveen eventually moved to Edmond, Oklahoma in pursuit of her education. In addition to completing her Bachelor's Degree in Law at the Applied Science University in Amman, Jordan, Ms. Neveen is also in the process of completing her second Bachelor's Degree in Special Education at the University of Central Oklahoma. Ms. Neveen has several years of experience in continued education in the fields of curriculum development and lesson planning, classroom behavior managment, and skill building activities. Ms. Neveen can speak, read, and write English, Arabic and French fluently. Whilst in Amman, Jordan, Ms. Neveen also completed her certified training in Qaidah Nooranieh, a renowned Quran tajweed program that teaches students how to master the art of Qur'anic recitation, and continues to train OIA faculty as a part of professional development. Ms. Neveen is one of the most dedicated teachers at Oklahoma Islamic Academy. Her students are always successful in their academic journey, a testimony to her vigilance and love for teaching.
Mr. Tamam Al-Ali,
Director of Arabic Language
Mr. Tamam was born in Baghdad, Iraq and raised in Misan, Iraq. In Iraq, Tamam finished his Bachelor's Degree in Education from Basra University in 1999. Graduating at the top of his class, Mr. Tamam was awarded a scholarship from the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education. His scholarship allowed him to pursue his Master's Degree in Biology from the University of Oklahoma, graduating in 2012. Mr. Tamam was then awarded a second scholarship from the University of Misan in 2014 in order to pursue his Ph.D. at the University of Kansas.
Since 2015, Mr. Tamam has researched and published in several scientific journals and publications throughout Germany, Canada, Egypt, Iraq, and the United States.
In addition to his studies in Biology, Mr. Tamam has extensive experience teaching Arabic, and he is a poet and story writer. Some of his certificates include his TOEFL PPT from the University of Oklahoma's Center for English as a Second Language earned in March 2010, as well as his TOEFL IPT certification from the Global Center for Language Testing in Baghdad, Iraq earned in July 2014. Mr.Tamam is fluent in computer science, additionally earning his computer fundamentals certificate from the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research in July 2014.
As a tribute to his high achievements and overall excellence in education, Mr.Tamam prestigiously holds several Certificates of Appreciation from: the President of Misan University, the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Iraqi General Director of the Department of Missions & Cultural Relations, and from the Iraqi Cultural Office in Washington DC. Mr. Tamam and his wife and children currently reside in Edmond, Oklahoma.
Mrs. Manal Qari, Director of Quran
Mrs. Manal Kari, born and raised in Syria, moved to Oklahoma in 2000. Mrs. Manal is married and has four beautiful children, ages 9, 13, 16, and 21 mashaAllah. Mrs. Manal holds an associate's degree in art and is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Education at the University of Central Oklahoma. Mrs. Manal has extensive experience teaching Quran Reading, Quran Memorization, and Arabic. Mrs. Manal has also taught preschool and enjoys working with young children. In addition, Mrs. Manal is a professional cake maker and decorator and has been baking professionally for 10 years. Mrs. Manal's passion for teaching and genuine love for teaching makes her an excellent addition to the OIA team!
Mrs. Vivian Adler, Reading Specialist
Mrs. Vivian is a graduate of Northwestern University Dental Hygiene School. In 1975, Mrs. Vivian obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences from Florida International University. After moving to Oklahoma City, Mrs. Vivian started her teaching career at Rose Jr. College in the Dental Hygiene Program. After taking time off to have children, she then returned to teaching at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry as an Assistant Professor in the Dental Hygiene Department. It was during that time that Mrs. Vivian went on to obtain a Masters in Health Occupations Education from the University of Central Oklahoma.
While at the University of Oklahoma, Mrs. Vivian decided to combine the two things she loved most--children and teaching. Therefore, Mrs. Vivian returned to the University of Central Oklahoma and obtained a Master's in Early Childhood Education. In 1999, Mrs. Vivian left her work at the University of Oklahoma and began her new career teaching first grade at John Glenn Elementary. She continued teaching first grade at Piedmont schools, then changed to Kindergarten in 2010. After more than 25 years of teaching, Mrs. Vivian honorably retired in 2019. Since then, Mrs. Vivian has spent her time reading, walking, zooming, and being on the Board of Family Medicine at the University of Oklahoma. Although she thoroughly enjoys her free time, Mrs. Vivian genuinely misses the joy of teaching children! Fortunately for OIA, Mrs. Vivian decided to return to teaching--at OIA--and once again can teach children and nurture their love for reading!
Mrs. Najat Meelad, Teacher
Mrs. Najat Meelad, Master of Arts (M.A.) in TESOL, was born and raised in Libya, and came to the United States in May, 2013. Mrs. Najat completed her Bachelor's Degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language at Omar Al-Mukhtar University in 2004. In 2014, Mrs. Najat completed her Master's Degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at the Oklahoma City University. Mrs. Najat successfully completed her practicum in Oklahoma City while pursuing her Master's Degree. Mrs. Najat has several years of experience teaching English in Libya to students of all levels and ages, including children and adults. In addition to this, Mrs. Najat also completed analytical courses in the study of Quran and can teach Quran reading and memorization, as well as Arabic to students from all backgrounds. In the United States, Najat taught and continues to teach preschool through middle school students in all academic subjects as well as in Islamic Studies, Arabic, Quran memorization and reading. Mrs. Najat is a valuable part of the OIA team and is passionate about best practices in instruction and ensuring her students receive a quality education. Mrs. Najat is also certified in Qaidah Nooranieh.
Mrs. Mona Hammoury, Teacher
Mrs. Mona Hammoury is a most professional and dedicated teacher with more than 12 years of teaching experience in both Lebanon and Abu Dhabi. Mrs. Mona has extensive experience with both concept mapping and using technology in the classroom. She also completed a certificate in Advanced Teaching from the Oxford Training College and also holds a certificate from the University of Cambridge, International Education Organization, Houghton-Mifflin Harcourt International Publishers, and the Sustainable Schools Initiative for Abu Dhabi. Mrs. Mona holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the Lebanese University in Beirut, Lebanon. Mrs. Mona is a passionate teacher, with a strong emphasis on mathematics. Her love for teaching is evident in her students' success and shared passion for learning.
Mrs. Rasha Akour, J.D. Teacher
Born and raised in Jordan, Mrs. Rasha prestigiously attended Yarmouk University. Upon graduating from Law School, Mrs. Rasha successfully passed her bar exam and research requirements. Mrs. Rasha then practiced law in Jordan before moving to the United States in 2000. A mother of three children, ages 12, 16, and 18, Mrs. Rasha has been heavily active in the Oklahoma Muslim community as both an educator and a volunteer. In addition to her work experience, Mrs. Rasha also volunteered frequently at her children's schools. As a testimony to her active role in our community, Mrs. Rasha also served as a board member of the Surayya Anne Foundation. With her devotion and commitment to quality education and her special care for every one of her students, OIA is fortunate to have Mrs. Rasha as part of our amazing team of teachers.
Dr. Sanaa A. Hameed, M.D. Teacher
Dr. Sanaa Abdul Hameed was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, but grew up in Toronto, Canada. In 2013, Dr. Sanaa earned her Doctor of Medicine degree at the Windsor University School of Medicine. Passionate about children’s education and sciences, Dr. Sanaa strongly believes that early learning gives a strong foundation to a child’s education and sets them in the right direction to success. Dr. Sanaa looks forward to creating scientific curiosity amongst students at OIA. In addition to her love for sciences and education, Dr. Sanaa also earned her Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates certification and was involved in the Northwestern University Transplant Outcomes Research Collaboration. Notably, Dr. Sanaa presented her research, “Hospital Patient Safety Culture in Living Donor Liver Transplantation” in 2014. In addition to her extensive educational training, Dr. Sanaa also enjoys traveling, music, swimming, bicycling, and reading biographies.
Mrs. Sara Dugan, Teacher
Mrs. Sara, a notable OKC community member involved in several outreach and charitable organizations, was born in Pakistan but grew up in the United States. Mrs. Sara attended both the University of Karachi and the University of Central Oklahoma and has completed her Bachelor’s degree in Business Communication with a minor in Accounting. Notably, Mrs. Sara is also one of the three founders of 3 Women and a Table, and a frequent volunteer at both the Mercy Food Pantry and at the Surayya Anne Foundation in Oklahoma City. Mrs. Sara’s passion lies in helping families and children in need, which is evident in her commitment to helping refugees make a home in Oklahoma. Impressively, Mrs. Sara believes that the most important time of a child’s life is in their elementary years. With close collaboration alongside her OIA teammates and with her students’ parents, Mrs. Sara sees her role as supporting students at this crucial time as vital to help them achieve their very best. In addition to her love for math and helping children excel academically, Mrs. Sara also enjoys baking with her kids and nieces and nephews. Mrs. Sara loves being surrounded by children and creatively finds ways to keep them engaged and motivated through hands-on project-based activities.
Miss Nora Ibrahim, Teacher
Miss Nora is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma’s College of Education and Professional Studies in Edmond, with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Community and Public Health, and with a minor in Sociology. Miss Nora has extensive experience working with the American Lung Association, where she participated in promoting health awareness. Fluent in both English and Arabic, Miss Nora has also been heavily involved in the Office of Global Affairs at UCO, where she assisted international students with enrollment. Miss Nora has a very warm and welcoming personality, making her a wonderful addition to Oklahoma Islamic Academy as an early childhood educator. Miss Nora is driven and goal-oriented and loves being able to work with children in an educational setting.
Mrs. Nabila Elmir, Preschool Teacher
Mrs. Nabila graduated from the University of Beauvais in France. She is one of five siblings and family plays an important role in her life. Mrs. Nabila is also blessed with three children of her own. Working with young children has always been a passion of Mrs. Nabila. At a young age, Mrs. Nabila cared for her younger siblings, which turned into professional babysitting, and finally, her career as an AuPair in America. Mrs. Nabila has tremendous experience tutoring children, taking care of their individual needs, and nurturing their growth, all of which led Mrs. Nabila to become a preschool teacher at OIA! Mrs. Nabila loves working with our young students, and also loves watching them grow into amazing young men and women!
Dr. Ahmed Mohammed, M.D., Teacher
A certified Nigerian-trained physician with immense passion for Da'awah, Dr. Ahmed Mohammed, M.D. is a Qur'an Hafiz and an impressive reciter. Dr. Ahmed joined OIA with decades of experience in both the sciences and the Holy Quran. Dr. Ahmed is a passionate science and Quran teacher. His students continuously shine and enjoy his enthusiasm in the classroom. In addition to his degrees in science, as well as Islamic Studies and Quran, Dr. Ahmed is also certified in Qaidah Nooranieh.
Mrs. Huma Sultan, Teacher
Mrs. Huma Sultan has worked at various prestigious institutes as an elementary teacher, including OIA! Mrs. Huma has extensive experience in education, coming from a long line of teachers in her own family. She has been part of the Montessori Teachers Training Institute as well as a presenter. Teacher Huma has also conducted various workshops for teachers in classroom and time management. In addition to holding a an early elementary endorsement, Mrs. Huma also holds a Bachelors degree in Science. Mrs. Huma is a valuable asset to our OIA team!
Mrs. Ayat Doleh, Substitute Teacher
Mrs. Ayat Doleh is a most dedicated and highly value asset of the OIA team. Mrs. Ayat has extensive experience teaching the Calvert English Language-Arts, Science and Social Studies curriculum. She also has tremendous experience teaching Saxon Math. Although Mrs. Ayat will not be working full-time this year, she is one of our designated substitute teachers. We are fortunate to call Mrs. Ayat an OIA Team member!
Salma Kabsoon, Daycare Teacher
Mrs. Salma Kabsoon is a long-standing member of our community, with extensive experience in retail and a mother of two girls. Mrs. Salma is dedicated, passionate, and a gentle-natured person who cares deeply for our staff's little ones.
