Faculty & Staff
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Wisal Alabdalla
Teacher- 9-12 Quran/Arabic; Seerah Course (Mishkah University) Degrees: Islamic Studies Years of Experience in Education: 14 Motto: Follow the bad deed with a good deed; it will erase it. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe that every student is uniquely created in personality and skills, and that requires the teacher to find the key in her teaching to how she can escalate the students' self-appreciation and find their jewel to improve it, support their ummah with their talents, and be successful Muslims in America and anywhere else in this world. Hobbies/Family: My hobbies include camping, nasheeds, arts & crafts, and volunteering for community services. 
Khalil Jourane Teacher- 9-12 Science/AP Biology Degrees: Bachelor’s in Biology Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction - Science Education Years of Experience in Education: 14 Motto: Learn Islam. Love Islam. Live Islam. Teaching Philosophy Statement: Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn. Hobbies/Family: I am a husband and a father of six Islamic school-educated children. I enjoy reading, studying Islamic topics, and hiking. 
Fatima Ezzahrae Nsais Teacher- 9-10 English/Personal Finance/Entrepreneurship Degrees: Bachelors in English Linguistics Masters in English-Speaking Cultures and Media: Applied Linguistics Masters in Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction Certifications: TCF French Language Proficiency C1 Level TEFL 120 (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) British Council German Proficiency C1 Goethe Certificate Years of Experience in Education: 5 Motto: “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.” — Plutarch Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe every student has unique strengths and potential. My goal is to create an inclusive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment that fosters a love for learning, critical thinking, and a growth mindset. Hobbies/Family: I love playing volleyball, playing pool, learning new languages, traveling around the world, riding my motorcycle, and spending quality time with my family, friends, and dogs. 
Mohammed Ammar Shaikh Head of QAIS Department; Teacher 6-8 Islamic Studies & Character and Leadership Degrees: Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Masters in Information Systems Years of Experience in Education: 20+ Motto: Reflect Islam in Your Life, Invite Others with Your Character Teaching Philosophy Statement: As an Islamic Studies teacher, I believe that education is not only about imparting knowledge but about nurturing the soul, shaping character, and preparing students to lead lives of purpose, guided by the principles of Islam as exemplified by the noble ways of our beloved Prophet (SAW). Our teaching philosophy should be deeply rooted in the holistic development of our students—spiritually, morally, intellectually, emotionally, and socially—as servants of Allah (SWT) and as Da'ees (callers) to the beautiful Deen of Islam, following the example of the Prophet (SAW). Hobbies/Family: We have four children, all of whom attend Islamic school. Our family strongly values and supports Islamic education and an Islamic environment. I enjoy participating in fun physical activities such as volleyball and riding a bike with my Louisville Muslim brothers. I also enjoy making processes more efficient, connecting people, finding resources, or any way I can help the Muslim Ummah. 
Matrid Ndife Teacher- 6-8 Science Degrees: Bachelors in Horticulture Masters in Post-Harvest Physiology Certifications: ESL - English as Second Language Years of Experience in Education: 20+ Motto: “Think before you speak, read before you think”. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I am not just teaching young students, but rather future adults who will need to become confident, self-sufficient, critical thinkers who are thoughtful, kind, and caring individuals. I don't just teach a subject; I teach students how to learn for/by themselves in order to become lifelong learners. Hobbies/Family: I love gardening, reading, being outdoors especially on the beach; spending time with family and friends, and traveling. 
Nouna Bouzelmat Melkheir Teacher- K-9 PE/Health/SEL Degree: Bachelor’s in Physical Education Master’s in Physiology of Sports Certifications: ISSA Personal Training & Nutrition Certificate U.S. Soccer Coaching Certificate Years of Experience in Education: 6 Motto: A healthy mind is a healthy body. Teaching Philosophy Statement: Physical education is about strengthening both body and mind. Is to provide students with knowledge, skills, and motivation to live a healthy lifestyle. Hobbies/Family: I love the outdoors, running, hiking, kayaking, camping, and working out. I am married and have one daughter. 
Desiree' Wofford Teacher- 5th Grade & 6th grade English Degrees: Bachelors in Elementary Education Fulfilling Masters in Political Science -PUA with a specialization in Human Resource Management and Sociology Years of Experience in Education: 3 Motto: Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path. Teaching Philosophy Statement: My teaching philosophy centers on fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. where every student feels valued and inspired to explore their full potential. Furthermore, I will assist my students to express themselves and accept themselves for who they are, as well as embrace the differences of others. Hobbies/Family: I enjoy reading, comedy events, decorating, laughing, and traveling. Kristen Kinne Teacher- 3rd Grade Degree: Associates in Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Special Education with Teaching Certification Years of Experience in Education: 20+ Motto: “Teachers who love teaching, teach children who love learning.” Teaching Philosophy Statement: I am an enthusiastic, caring educator with over 20 years of teaching experience spanning preschool/pre-kindergarten to 6th grade, who believes that all children can learn and thrive in a learning environment that is stimulating, comforting, and appropriate to the children’s abilities. I’ve been commended for excellence in innovation, creativity, organization, and proactive talents. I have an exceptional ability to establish rapport with students and parents based on outstanding communication skills. Hobbies/Family: I have 5 children, 3 dogs, and 4 grandchildren. I have been teaching since the mid-90s in many different roles. I was born in Massachusetts and raised in New Hampshire. In 2017, I moved to Colorado; in 2018, I moved to Texas; in 2021, I moved to Louisville, Kentucky. I am always excited to share my love of education with my students. I enjoy spending time with my family and spending time in my crafting room. 
Amani Aljalab Teacher - 1st Grade Degrees: Bachelors in English Literature Certifications: Diploma of Educational Qualification Years of Experience in Education: 15 Motto: Love every child, and they will blossom in the warmth of your care. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe in creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child feels valued, inspired, and capable of reaching their full potential. Through love, patience, and creativity, I aim to ignite curiosity, foster a love of learning, and guide students in their journey toward becoming confident, compassionate, and lifelong learners. Hobbies/Family: I’m Amani Aljalab, a dedicated teacher with over a decade of experience, including more than 8 years at Nur Islamic School of Louisville. Specializing in first, second, and third grade, I am passionate about fostering academic growth and values like kindness and empathy in my students. Raised in Syria and having lived in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, I bring a deep respect for diverse cultures to my teaching. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy walking, Indian Biryani, Moroccan tea, and spending time with my four wonderful boys. In 2020, I was honored with the Teacher of the Year award, a recognition that reinforces my commitment to making a positive impact on my students’ lives. 
Nilofer Naaz
Teacher Assistant- Kindergarten Degrees: Bachelors in Computer Science Engineering Years of Experience in Education: 2 Motto: Small Hands, Big Dreams! Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe that every child is unique and learns best in an environment that is engaging, nurturing, and supportive. My goal is to foster curiosity and creativity, helping each child grow in confidence and develop a lifelong love of learning. Hobbies/Family: I'm married to a tech-savvy software engineer, and together, we’re raising two little explorers: a first-grader who loves adventure and a spirited 2.5-year-old who’s always on the move. In my downtime, you’ll find me making memories with my family—my favorite hobby and the best way to unwind. 
Sakina Imtiaz Teacher - 2-5 Islamic Studies Degree: Bachelor’s of Science Years of Experience in Education: 1 Motto: Inspiring a journey of learning through the light of Islamic teachings. Teaching Philosophy Statement: My teaching philosophy for Islamic studies centers on nurturing holistic growth by integrating spiritual, ethical, and intellectual dimensions. I aim to foster critical thinking and contextual understanding, encouraging students to connect Islamic teachings with practical life and respect diverse perspectives. My goal is to inspire a lifelong journey of learning and personal development rooted in the values of faith. Hobbies/Family: I am married and have a five-year-old. I value family time and nurturing strong relationships. My hobbies include nature exploration, photography, and cooking. 
Bothaina Ali Teacher PreK-1 Quran/Arabic Degree: Bachelor’s in Arabic Years of Experience in Education: 19 Motto: The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it. Teaching Philosophy Statement: It gives me the strength to come to the school to see them grow. Hobbies/Family: My hobbies include taking care of my husband(May Allah give him strength), spending time with my grandson and taking care of our garden. 
Niveen Allen Substitute/ Floater Degree: Associates in Social Work Certifications: First Aid & CPR Youth Mental Health First Aid Years of Experience in Education: 6 Motto: Allah(SWT) loves those who give. Teaching Philosophy Statement: Working with kids is so rewarding, especially when you bring the same care and enthusiasm that you have for your own kids. Hobbies/Family: I am so blessed with three daughters and two grandchildren. I love spending time with them, learning more about the deen as well as enjoying friends and family gatherings. Stacey Clements Interventionist Degrees: Bachelor’s in Elementary Education Master of Education in Special Education Certifications: K – 8 Elementary Education K- 12 Special Education Years of Experience in Education: 20+ Motto: Every child can reach for the stars! Teaching Philosophy Statement: My dream is to guide my own students to improve in math. I will strive to be their biggest advocate, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment in which to improve, grow, and love math. I hope that they will always remember the love and support they received in my classroom and carry it with them throughout their lives. Hobbies/Family: My hobbies include reading, math, traveling, Disney, gardening, and crafts. I have one son, Bosco who is a doctor, and two daughters (Brittany & Kelly) and four grandsons. I am married to my husband Jay for 42 years. |
Hanane Takerkart Teacher- 9-12 Math Degrees Master's in Chemical Engineering Certifications: Information Technology Certificate PC Pro Certificate Years of Experience in Education: 3 Motto: In learning, you will teach and in teaching, you will learn. Teaching Philosophy Statement: Education is the foundation upon which we build our future. I aim to provide a safe learning environment and equal opportunities to all students. Hobbies/Family: I really enjoy family time, outside activities, and cooking. 
Amel Chamekh Elloumi Teacher– 9-12 Social Studies/AP Psychology/AP US History Degrees: Bachelors in History Certifications: Computer Science CAPES/ Certificate of Aptitude for Secondary Education Years of Experience in Education: 15 Motto: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Verily, God loves if any of you does a job, he does it with perfection”. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I love this quote from Benjamin Frankl “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn”, so I believe in the active method and building a lesson based on student interaction. Hobbies/Family: I enjoy learning about nutrition, archaeology, and self-motivation. 
Aisha Taylor Teacher- 7-8 English/AP English Degrees: Bachelors of Science in Education- Secondary English Master’s of Science in Education- Secondary English Educational Specialist in K12 Leadership Certifications: Teaching ELA 8-12 Writing K-12 Years of Experience in Education: 5 Motto: The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery. Teaching Philosophy Statement: Effort is the ultimate equalizer. Students that try hard will achieve high levels of success and be rewarded. Always keep trying— your effort is what defines you. Hobbies/Family: I love learning languages, reading and spending time with family. I am the oldest girl of 6 kids and my family is Algerian/American. 
Matou Amar Teacher- 6-8 Math Degree: Business Administration in Finance Certifications: First Aid & CPR Youth Mental Health First Aid Years of Experience in Education: 1 Motto: “In learning you will teach, and in teaching you will learn.” – Phil Collins. Teaching Philosophy Statement: The key to empowering today's youth is education, so they will feel confident in their future careers, relationships, and duties as community members. Hobbies/Family: I love to cook, go out, and spend time with my family members. 
Walaa Musleh
Teacher- 6-8 Social Studies & Quran/Arabic Degree: Bachelor’s in English Literature Certifications: Google Level 1 & 2 Years of Experience in Education: 8 Motto: Whoever follows a path in the pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make the path to Paradise easy for him. This hadith emphasizes the virtue of seeking knowledge and its profound rewards both in this life and the hereafter. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe that each student who joins NISL has the potential to learn and grow. My goal is to create a supportive and loving environment where they can do their best. I focus on helping them develop their thinking skills. Hobbies/Family: I enjoy cooking every day and love making sweets every other day. Taking care of my son is a big part of my life, and we often spend time together at the park or swimming. I also have a big garden, mostly filled with vegetables, which I love tending to. Additionally, I enjoy watching movies in the theatre, learning social studies now and spending quality time with my family, making every moment count." 
Shahieda Sallie Teacher- 6-8 English Degrees: Bachelor of Arts Masters in Education Masters in Business Administration Certifications: Teacher of English as a Foreign Language Cambridge Certified Train-the-Trainer Years of Experience in Education: 15 Motto: "Education either functions as an instrument to bring about conformity or freedom.” – Paulo Freire Teaching Philosophy Statement: As a Muslim South African woman shaped by the injustices of apartheid, I believe in an education system that is fundamentally equitable and inclusive, ensuring that every learner—regardless of race, color, or creed—has access to quality learning opportunities. Rooted in the philosophy of Paulo Freire, I view the educator as a facilitator who engages learners as active participants in the co-construction of knowledge, rather than as passive recipients. My approach champions critical thinking, dialogue, and empowerment, fostering a transformative educational experience that promotes social justice and human dignity. Hobbies/Family: I met my husband (a native Louisvillian) while teaching in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and we have been married for 12 years now. We lived abroad for most of that time and only came to Louisville to visit. We have now decided to make it our home. We have been back in the USA for one year now. We enjoy hiking, travelling, and learning about new cultures and languages. I also dabble in mixed media art projects. I have taught at universities in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and recently the Sultanate of Oman. I see being an educator as a passion and not a profession. Noor Hassouneh Teacher – 4th Grade Degree: Bachelor’s in Marketing Years of Experience in Education: 3 Motto: Take it easy. Teaching Philosophy Statement: Developing globally minded, reflective learners who approach problems with critical thinking and appreciation of diverse perspectives. Encouraging students to connect knowledge across subjects and engage with the world in a caring and responsible way. Hobbies/Family: I am married. I have 2 birds, 1 cat, 2 rabbits, and a lot of plants. I like to be in nature and spend time with good company. I occasionally draw (not professionally, more for expression or relieving stress (if that’s possible). I enjoy watching the sky and have a profound admiration for the moon. 
Mebarka Aftis Teacher- 2nd Grade Degrees: Associates in Science Bachelors in the Science of Matter Masters in Imaging Biomedical Engineering Years of Experience in Education: 1 Motto: Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe that every child is unique and capable of achieving great things. My role as a teacher is to guide and support them in reaching their full potential. Hobbies/Family: I am married and have three children. My hobbies are reading books, writing novels in Arabic, traveling, and spending time with my family. 
Nour Al Jalab Teacher- Kindergarten Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature Certifications: Google Certified Educator Level 1 & 2 Years of Experience in Education: 10 Motto: Nothing is permanent in this world, not even our troubles! Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe that every child is a unique learner, and my role as a kindergarten teacher is to create a safe and nurturing environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and growth. My focus is on building a strong foundation of academic and social-emotional skills that will inspire a lifelong love of learning. Hobbies/Family: I am very fortunate to have a wonderful husband, Jamal, who supports me and our children through everything. We are blessed with three amazing kids: Maya, Sammy, and our baby girl, Masa. Their curiosity, playful energy, and the growing bond between them bring immense joy to our lives. In my free time, I enjoy swimming, cooking, and spending time with my family. And I cherish any opportunity to explore new places with my loved ones. Rubeena Valappil Teacher - K-8 Technology & Art Degrees: Bachelor of Commerce Years of Experience in Education: 2 Motto: The Prophet encouraged people to perfect their work, even when the imperfection was minor. For example, when he noticed a gap between bricks in a grave, he instructed his companions to fill it, saying, "Allah loves that whenever any of you does something, you should perfect it. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe in being organized and staying on task. Use effective teaching methods that address the individual needs of each student. Hobbies/Family: I live with my husband Fakrudeen Mohammad, and I am the mother of four children: Fahmeeda, Faiz, Fida, and Fayyad. My eldest daughter has graduated from NISL and is now pursuing high school at Dupont Manual in MST and Visual Arts. Three of my other children are currently studying at NISL. I cherish spending time with my family and have a passion for traveling to different places. I also enjoy cooking and trying new things. Lamya Abdelghani Teacher 2-5 Quran/Arabic Degree: Master's in Quranic Sciences Certifications: Certification in multiple Quran teaching methodologies, including Al-Qaida Al-Nouraniya, Noor Al-Bayan, Al-Qaida Al-Fathiah Al-Mutawarra, and Al-Qaida Al-Dhahabiah. Years of Experience in Education: 10 Motto: Teaching Philosophy Statement: Hobbies/Family: 
Zehra Risley Substitute/ Floater Degree: High School Diploma Years of Experience in Education: 3 Motto: "Those who do not live in the way they believe, start to believe in the way they live" -Blaise Pascal Teaching Philosophy Statement: I think the best learning happens when it’s fun, personal, and engaging. I try to meet people where they are, encourage their strengths, and help them grow not just in what they know, but in who they are. I’m committed to showing up with integrity and dedication because education should prepare students for life, not just tests. Hobbies/Family: I have a husband, Irfan, and two cats, Şişo and Wally. I love to swim, run, learn new languages, look at fish, and do art of any kind. 
Sara Young Title 1 Interventionist – Reading Degrees: Bachelor in Psychology and Education Masters in Liberal Arts Certifications: Rank 1 Teacher's Certificate Years of Experience in Education: 20+ Motto: Sharing with others is my way of paying back my many blessings. Teaching Philosophy Statement: I believe that every person is capable of learning to read. My goal is to encourage my students to WANT to learn to read. If they are motivated, they will become lifelong readers! Hobbies/Family: I am the mother of 11 adult children, ages 28-49. Several of my children are teachers themselves. My husband and I have 18 grandchildren, with another on the way. I love sharing what I learn from my grandchildren with my students, and vice versa. I am very blessed! |