Staff & Faculty
Dr. Mohammad Asim Syed
School Principal
Dr. Mohammad Asim Syed serves as the School Principal, bringing over 25 years of experience as a physician along with decades of dedicated community service. He has volunteered with numerous Muslim organizations across the country, contributing to projects involving fundraising, school planning, construction, and weekend Islamic education programs. His leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to building a strong academic and spiritual foundation for students. Dr. Syed brings a wealth of knowledge, professionalism, and care to his role, with a vision to foster a nurturing and high-quality Islamic learning environment. Originally from Ohio, he has relocated to Indiana to lead the school and continues to enjoy traveling and spending time with family.
Amber Abdullah
Assistant Principal
Amber Abdullah serves as the Assistant Principal, bringing over 30 years of experience in education across diverse settings both internationally and in the U.S. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Evansville and a Master’s Degree in ESL, which led her to begin her teaching career in Malaysia before returning to teach at Murray State University. Over the years, she has worked in both public and Islamic schools, including serving as a teacher and principal at the Islamic School of Plainfield for over a decade. Her leadership is grounded in a passion for student growth, language development, and community building. In addition to her administrative role, she will also be stepping into the Middle School Classroom as an ELA Reading teacher for this school year. Based in Indianapolis with her husband and three daughters, she enjoys reading, camping, supporting Girl Scouts, and watching her children thrive in sports.
Heather Schutz, M.Ed
School Administrator
Heather Schutz serves as the School Administrator, bringing over a decade of experience in teaching, instructional coaching, and curriculum development. She holds a Master’s in Education with a focus on Teaching Multilingual Learners, along with degrees in Public Relations and Business Management. After working in international schools for ten years, Heather brings a global perspective to student-centered learning and inclusive school culture. She is passionate about fostering equitable environments, supporting staff growth, and empowering students through strategic leadership. In addition to her administrative role, she will also be stepping into the Middle School Classroom as an ELA Reading teacher for this school year
Tabasum Fathima Baig
Facility Manager & Upper Elementary ELA Teacher
Tabasum Fathima Baig serves as the Facility Manager and Upper Elementary ELA Teacher, bringing a unique blend of educational passion, project coordination, and entrepreneurial experience to her role. She holds a Bachelor of Law (LLB Hons) from London Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom and a Master’s in Business Administration from Anderson University. Her professional background includes work with UNICEF, The Princeton Review, and launching a successful Amazon business, reflecting both global perspective and leadership skills. In 2022, she authored her first Islamic children’s book, Ishaaq, Mama and the Gift of Knowledge, and continues to promote literacy through parent education and writing workshops. With a deep belief in meeting students where they are, she is committed to building strong reading and writing foundations through critical thinking, differentiated instruction, and a love for storytelling.
Maryam Khalid
School Receptionist
Maryam Khalid serves as the School Receptionist, bringing experience in front office support and early childhood care. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Home Economics from Himayat-E-Islam Girls College in Lahore, Pakistan. Maryam previously worked as a childcare provider through Social Services in Virginia, where she created engaging activities and supported children’s development. She had five years of experience working at GVC School as an administrator and also worked as an administrative assistant and receptionist at Universal School of Plainfield. Fluent in English, Punjabi, Urdu, and Hindi, she is known for her warm demeanor, multitasking skills, and welcoming presence at the front desk.
Aissatou Bah
Office Staff
Aissatou Bah serves as the Office Staff, providing consistent support to students, families, and staff with professionalism and care. She holds an Associate of Arts degree with Academic Honors from Cincinnati State and brings her years of experience in administrative roles to Guidance Islamic School. She has worked in both educational and recreational settings, where she led youth programs, taught introductory Fulani and French language classes, and created engaging activities for children. Fluent in Fulani, French, and English, she contributes to a welcoming and inclusive environment for the school community. Her goal is to ensure the smooth daily operation of the office while helping every parent and child feel respected and supported.
Saira Khan
Pre-K Homeroom Teacher
Saira Khan brings over seven years of experience in early childhood education and is passionate about nurturing young learners. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and Economics, along with a Master’s in International Relations and Politics from the International Islamic University of Islamabad. Originally from Pakistan, she is now raising her three children and supporting early learning at Guidance Islamic School. Saira is committed to fostering a warm, engaging, and structured classroom for her students. Her goal is to create a joyful and meaningful learning experience for every child she teaches.
Amna Abbasi
Kindergarten Homeroom Teacher
Amna Abbasi brings experience and creativity to her role as the Kindergarten Homeroom Teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and previously worked in New Jersey’s public school system for over three years. Amna is passionate about early learning and strives to build an inclusive, fun, and supportive classroom environment. She believes in nurturing curiosity, imagination, and growth in each child. This year, she is excited to guide her students through a memorable and meaningful kindergarten experience, Insha’Allah.
Shukryah Mustafa
1st Grade Homeroom Teacher
Shukryah Mustafa brings over 15 years of experience in Islamic and general education to her role as the 1st Grade Homeroom Teacher. She studied at IUPUI and holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Shukryah is passionate about delivering high-quality, values-based education that supports both academic success and spiritual growth. As a mother of four, she combines professional expertise with heartfelt care for her students. Her goal is to foster a love for learning while nurturing confident, respectful learners.
Laiba Memon
2nd Grade Homeroom Teacher
Laiba Memon brings strong analytical skills and academic expertise to her role as the 2nd Grade Homeroom Teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Accounting (Hons) from Oxford Brookes University and is an ACCA Affiliate, with additional certification from the Institute of Management Accountants. Her professional background in tax and financial analysis adds to her well-rounded approach to education. Laiba is committed to fostering critical thinking, confidence, and a lifelong love for learning in her students.
Maryam Aziz
3rd Grade Homeroom Teacher
Asalamilikum, my name is Maryam Aziz. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and I completed my Alimah course at the Shariah Board of America in Chicago. Alhamdulillah, I bring with me years of teaching experience in both Islamic and public school settings. I have taught 4th grade for two years in a public school, and I also served as a Seerah Teacher and Seerah Department Head at the Muslim Education Center in Illinois for two years. In addition, I have worked as a Sunday School Teacher, Summer Hifz Teacher, and 2nd Grade Teacher at Masjid Uthman in Lombard, Illinois. Alhamdulillah. I am truly delighted to be a part of Guidance Islamic School and feel honored to join such an amazing community of administrators, teachers, students, and families. I look forward to collaborating with all of you and nurturing a positive educational environment rooted in strong Islamic values where every student can grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
Sanam Abbasi
4th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Sanam Abbasi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics with a specialization in Elementary Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is certified to teach in both New Jersey and Indiana. She has also completed an Early Literacy Endorsement, strengthening her expertise in foundational reading instruction. With experience teaching across all grade levels, Sanam brings a well-rounded perspective to her role. She is committed to creating a classroom environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to grow into curious, responsible, and compassionate individuals.
Rosena Azeez
5th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Rosena Azeez is a dedicated educator with a strong commitment to fostering student growth and confidence. With extensive experience in teaching and individualized academic support, she creates an engaging classroom environment that meets the diverse needs of her students. Rosena is passionate about encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and a love for learning, helping her students thrive both academically and personally.
Sobhia Quadri
6th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Sobhia Quadri brings over a decade of experience in education, counseling, and community programming to her role as the 6th Grade Homeroom Teacher. With a background in computer science and management, along with certifications in mental health and counseling, she integrates her diverse skills to create meaningful learning experiences. Sobhia is passionate about empowering students with knowledge, confidence, and critical thinking, while fostering a safe and supportive classroom environment.
Latifa Benibba
7th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Latifa Benibba holds a Bachelor's in Private Law from Hassan II University in Mohammadia, Morocco. She brings a deep commitment to student growth and engagement, fostering an environment where learners feel confident, motivated, and connected. She values creating a classroom community that supports both academic success and personal development.
Muhammad Abdulhaqq
8th Grade Homeroom Teacher
Muhammad Abdulhaqq is a graduate of Al Hussnain Seminary in Indianapolis, where he earned a Master’s in Islamic Studies and studied Arabic, tafseer, fiqh, and hadith under esteemed scholars. He has experience teaching students ages 6–13 and is known for his patience, leadership, and effective communication. He strives to make learning meaningful and accessible while fostering strong values and academic growth. He is fluent in Arabic and has memorized three Juz of the Quran.
GhulamAisha
PE & Lower Elementary Art Teacher
GhulamAisha brings a strong background in health, sports education, and the creative arts to her role as PE and Lower Elementary Art Teacher at Guidance Islamic School. She holds a Master’s in Health and Physical Education and a Bachelor’s in Education, with hands-on experience coaching youth teams and teaching art and English in schools across Punjab, Pakistan. Known for her energy, creativity, and commitment to student engagement, she has led handball coaching, organized team-building activities, and developed fun, skill-based drills. GhulamAisha is multilingual and passionate about fostering teamwork, discipline, and self-expression through physical education and the arts.
Nora Mohamed-Kidd
Social Studies Teacher (Upper Elementary & Middle School)
Nora Mohamed-Kidd holds dual Indiana teaching licenses and a Bachelor of Science in Special and Elementary Education from Vincennes University. With 14 years of teaching experience, she brings deep knowledge and a student-first mindset to her classroom. Nora is committed to creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where students feel valued. She is excited to guide learners through history and civics while helping them grow into informed, responsible citizens.
Elham Hamed
Arabic, Islamic Studies & Quran Teacher (Lower Elementary)
Elham Hamed teaches Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran to lower elementary students with a passion for nurturing both language skills and Islamic values in young learners. She holds a Bachelor's in Education from the Faculty of Education at Cairo University. With years of experience, Ms. Hamed creates a warm, engaging classroom environment that supports the spiritual and academic growth of her students.
Meraj Patel
Computer Science & PE (Middle School)
Meraj Patel earned her degree in Computer Information Technology from Purdue University and brings 20 years of experience in IT, web development, and internet marketing. Her teaching style blends structure, excitement, and hands-on learning. She is passionate about helping students explore technology and stay physically active in a fun and productive way. Her goal is to make every class engaging and educational, while fostering skills for life inside and outside the classroom.
Inna Zelani
Pre-K Assistant Teacher
I am originally from Niger in West Africa and hold an educational background in Management, Accounting, and Information Technology. I have over eight years of experience working with children and am naturally gifted with patience, which helps me connect well with them. I speak multiple languages, including French and Hausa. I truly enjoy working with young children because of their innocence and curiosity, and I am passionate about supporting their growth using strong Islamic values.