Principal Faheem Rivers

With over 25 years of experience working with youth and more than 12 years in education, I have dedicated my career to fostering growth, discipline, and leadership among students. My educational background includes a degree in psychology and 7 years of experience in restorative practices, where I have focused on helping students navigate behavioral challenges. I served as the Dean of Discipline for 3 years and as Vice Principal for 2 years, implementing strategies to support student development and academic achievement. My passion for coaching basketball spans over 25 years, where I emphasize the parallels between the struggles on the court and the challenges of life. Through sports, I teach resilience, teamwork, and discipline—skills that are vital both in athletics and in all areas of life. Family is central to my life, and I deeply cherish the time spent with them. Above all, my prayer is for our students to stand firm in their deen and grow into responsible young women and men who can be counted on as leaders and upstanding members of society.

Ms. Shabnem Lakhani

I have been with the Averroes Family since 2019, when my eldest son joined as a freshman. I have since then been working with Averroes for 3 years Alhamdulillah, and have another son at Averroes as a junior this year. My husband and I live in Pleasanton with our two younger sons, while our eldest is studying at UC Davis. I graduated from San Jose State in 2000 with a degree in Document Design & Management and a Minor in Business Management. My professional background is in Technical Writing, and I've lived in the Bay Area my whole life. As the Director of Operations, I can help with calendars, events, technology, facilities needs, tuition, and Blackbaud. I look forward to meeting and getting to know each of you throughout the year!

Orzala Arsala

My name is Orzala Arsala, and I proudly serve as one of the administrators at Averroes High School. In my role, I am committed to supporting the needs of our students, staff, and families, ensuring that everyone in our community has the resources and guidance they need to thrive. I believe in fostering an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their full potential. As a parent, I have a personal connection to the school. Two of my four children attend Averroes High School—one is a junior, and the other is a sophomore. My other two children are enrolled at Northstar School. Balancing my role as an administrator and a parent allows me to understand the needs of both the school and the families we serve. I am passionate about creating a nurturing and supportive atmosphere that benefits not only my own children but all the students at Averroes High School. My goal is to ensure that every student has the tools and support necessary to succeed academically, socially, and personally. I am deeply committed to the mission of our school and look forward to working closely with the entire Averroes High School community to create an environment where every student can flourish.

Mr. Mensur Mohammud

Mr. Mensur Mohammud has been a dedicated member of Averroes High School since Fall 2016. In his first year, he managed all student transportation to and from the South Bay and supported transportation for Physical Education activities. Through his efforts, Mensur built strong relationships with both staff and students. Currently, in addition to the transportation, he oversees maintenance and janitorial services at AHS, ensuring the functionality of various equipment and appliances. Mensur is deeply committed to student safety and maintaining a positive working environment. He consistently strives to embody and uphold the values of Averroes in every task he undertakes.

Ms. Mai Hefni

Hello, I’m Mai Hefni, and I’m thrilled to join Averroes High School. With a bachelor’s degree in Science from Ain Shams University and advanced coursework in Cell Biology and Histology, I’ve spent three years teaching science at both elementary and high school levels, with a preference for high school. After moving to California with my husband, I’m excited to return to my teaching career. I’m currently enrolled in the Advanced Bio-science and Clinical Scientist Preparatory Program at UC Berkeley Extension. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, art, cooking, and gardening, and I live with my two children and a cat. I’m passionate about the transformative power of science and look forward to sharing that enthusiasm with my students.

Ms. Rania Eltantawy

What I Teach

Arabic I, II, & III; Home Economics; Student Advisor for 10th grade

Education

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Egypt

Teaching Experience

I have been teaching Arabic for the past three years. Before that, I spent over a year teaching Arabic through tutoring and homeschooling. These experiences allowed me to work closely with students at different levels, adapt instruction to individual needs, and build strong foundations in Arabic language learning.

This is my second year teaching Home Economics and my first year serving as a 10th grade student advisor. In these roles, I support students not only academically, but also in building life skills, responsibility, and personal growth.

Something Interesting About Me

I was born and raised in Egypt and love traveling, reading, and long walks. I am also a mother of two, and my children are around the same age as my students, which helps me connect deeply with both students and families. In addition to teaching, I am deeply interested in holistic health and homeopathy, and I have completed many courses and independent studies in this area. This interest reflects my belief in caring for the whole person, mind, body, and character.

My Passion for Working with Youth

I am passionate about working with youth because I believe every student deserves to feel capable, valued, and inspired. I love helping students build confidence, think critically, and connect their learning to real life. For me, teaching Arabic is not only about language; it is about identity, belonging, and connection to culture and the Qur’an.

Teaching Philosophy / Classroom Approach

My teaching philosophy centers on creating a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where students actively use Arabic through speaking, listening, reading, and writing. I use interactive strategies such as collaborative learning, project-based instruction, and differentiated activities to meet diverse learning needs. I believe students learn best when they feel motivated, challenged, and emotionally supported.

Ms. Faten Shatila

What I Do

Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus

Education

Masters of Science in Mathematics Education 

Teaching Experience

I have formal training in secondary instruction focused on developing deep conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and effective strategies for supporting diverse learners. I bring several years of experience teaching both middle and high school mathematics, working with students across a wide range of skill levels, supporting exam preparation, and designing targeted interventions to strengthen foundational understanding and confidence in math.

Something Interesting About Me

Outside the classroom, I enjoy long walks in nature, which help me reset and recharge so I can bring focus and energy back to my students each day.

My Passion for Working with Youth

I am passionate about helping students overcome the fear often associated with mathematics and about building a classroom culture rooted in persistence, curiosity, and growth. My teaching approach emphasizes clarity, structure, and conceptual understanding over memorization. I guide students step by step, ask purposeful questions, and create a supportive learning environment where mistakes are viewed as an essential part of the learning process.

Ms. Marya

What I Do

History 9th-10th; Art 9th-10th

Education

Bachelor of Science in Biology – provide college/university

Minor in English Literature - provide college/university

Teaching Experience

My teaching experience extends back over a decade, ranging from homeroom teaching at the elementary level to substitute teaching middle and high school grades. I have worked with the homeschool community as a private teacher covering core standards through an Islamic lens and enjoy teaching a variety of subjects.

Something Interesting About Me

While exploring ecology in university, I worked extensively on a directed independent study for a nature preserve and removed invasive air potato species from a local butterfly garden. I encourage my students to translate their knowledge into meaningful action that benefits the world around them. 

My Passion for Working with Youth

Inspiring and uplifting upcoming Muslim American generations is a deeply rooted passion of mine. I look forward to supporting students in reaching their full potential and gently guiding them to pathways that lead to opportunity and integrity. I hope to foster a love for community service alongside a strong personal trajectory in each of my students.

Teaching Philosophy / Classroom Approach

My educational philosophy as a teacher integrates socioemotional support, structured classroom management, and a wholesome learning environment. I aim to inculcate an admiration for the humanities and the universal empathy such areas of study generate.

Ms. Zeenat Umar

What I Do

English Language Arts 9th-12th

Education

Bachelor of Science in Journalism - San Jose State University 

Master of Arts in Multimedia Communications - Academy of Art University, San Francisco

Teaching Experience

I bring over 15 years of experience working with young adults, both inside and outside the classroom. I have taught middle school history at SVA working with students in grades 6th through 8th, and I am currently in my second year as an English Language Arts instructor at Averroes High School.

In addition to my classroom experience, I founded a private tutoring center in 2018 that provided personalized academic support tailored to the individual needs of middle and high school students. I later chose to close the center in order to fully dedicate myself to classroom teaching. For more than a decade, I have also coached students through the college admissions essay process, helping many gain acceptance to highly competitive institutions, including UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCLA, and the Wharton School.

Something Interesting About Me

Right out of undergrad, I became the first Muslim blogger at the newspaper where I worked, The Daily Republic, bringing fresh perspectives and underrepresented voices to the publication. I was the only Muslim among a staff of over 1,000 employees, yet I built strong, positive relationships and got along beautifully with everyone. This experience strengthened my storytelling skills and reinforced my commitment to thoughtful, inclusive communication. 

My Passion for Working with Youth

I have a natural ability to connect with youth which is why this profession found me! All of my work with young people has happened organically, and I truly believe it is my calling. I am guided by strong values, yet I also believe in the importance of joy and allowing students and myself the freedom to balance work and play. To me, the meaning of education goes far beyond what is often found in traditional classrooms; it is about fostering curiosity, growth, and real understanding, not just grades.

Teaching Philosophy / Classroom Approach

I am most interested in real learning, not simply scores or grades. I believe that all human beings thrive when there is structure, which is why I design detailed, intentional lesson plans that create clarity and purpose in the classroom. At the same time, I prioritize active listening and participation over note-taking. I provide notes for my students and post them online so they can fully engage in discussion, thinking, and learning without distraction.

I customize my teaching methods based on each class’s needs and remain flexible, adjusting lessons in real time to meet students where they are and then push them further. I enjoy challenging students, encouraging them to think critically and outside the box, and supporting them as they take intellectual risks. I strive to teach with heart, clarity, and acceptance. I also love making students laugh, bringing humor and joy into the classroom!

One of the most important lessons I have learned through years of teaching and tutoring is that strong relationships are essential to meaningful learning. My goal is to build positive, trusting connections with every student so they feel welcomed, supported, and confident in their ability to succeed.

Ustad Siddique Abdullah

What I Do

Quran; Theology 9th-12th

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies and Ijaza – Zaytuna College Seminary Program

Summer Arabic Immersion Program at Markaz Al-Nile and Markez Al-Fajr 

Imam Training Program at Abu Nur, in Damascus, Syria 

Master of Arts in Islamic Studies - Grand Theological Union in Berkeley, CA.

Teaching Experience

This will be my fifth year teaching full-time at Averroes. I will be teaching Quran and Theology this year at Averroes High School. I will be working and assisting in the development of the Quran and Islamic studies curriculum. My experience in teaching began in 1996 at Al-Huda School in Maryland. There I taught the Quran, Islamic Studies, and Arabic for youth and adults. While a student at Zaytuna I was a Teaching Assistant for level 2 Arabic classes and the Teacher for the text Al-Ajrumiyyah, a text for beginners in Arabic grammar. For 10 years at North Star school in Hayward, CA, I was a Vice Principal, a teacher for Quran, Arabic, and Islamic Studies, and Director of Arabic and Islamic Studies Programs.

Something Interesting About Me

I am a blessed father of six wonderful children and five wonderful grandchildren and the husband of my wonderful wife of thirty-three years, Aminah Abdullah. I’m also a former Jazz musician, high school state champion in track and field, and collegiate scholar athlete from the University of Maryland.

My Passion for Working with Youth

I got involved in education because it provides me with the opportunity to grow as a human being and impact the lives of countless numbers of students. I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with Averroes high school because it provides me with the opportunity to continue to positively impact the lives of our youth.

Ms. Danielle Swan

What I Do

Developing Muslims; College Counseling 9th-12th

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Islamic Studies - Zaytuna College

Master of Arts in Arabic Islamic Texts (Islamic Law & Principals of Law) - Zaytuna College

Teaching Experience

Including sports coaching, working with children on the spectrum, and teaching elementary school and high school students, I have a total of 7 years of teaching experience.

Something Interesting About Me

Including sports coaching, working with children on the spectrum, and teaching elementary school and high school students, I have a total of 7 years of teaching experience.

My Passion for Working with Youth

I love witnessing growth and transformation in my students. I find it incredibly rewarding to support students in their holistic development. Beyond academics, my hope is to help students become stronger in their Islamic identities, improve their familial relationships, and develop their character.

Teaching Philosophy / Classroom Approach

I believe in using school and its necessary academic skills as practice for life. I attempt to make my classes revolve around the necessary skills and awareness that allow for success in this life and the Next. I always try to keep my classes relevant, addressing real-life situations and current challenges, with a focus on growth and student potential. I am passionate about catering to each student’s unique path, gifts, strengths, and struggles, and helping them discover their values, where they want to head in life, and providing them with the tools and resources to try and reach their goals and potential.

Ms. Nahla Mohamed

What I Do

Physics 11th; Quran 9th-12th

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Geology - University of Khartoum, Sudan

Bachelor of Science with Honors in Chemistry  - University of Western Ontario, Canada

Minor in Pharmacology and Toxicology - University of Western Ontario, Canada

Master of Education and a credential program single subject Science from Dominican University, California.

Teaching Experience

My teaching experience started because of my love for my 1st language, the language of the Quran. I started as a volunteer in our community, then became a teacher in Northstar school in 2012 as an Arabic and Quran teacher. In 2017, I enrolled in the Biotechnology program at Laney College. From 2022-2024, I was science teacher in Oakland Charter High school.

My belief as a Muslim, my education and background in Science, and all my teaching experiences have a big impact in being a passionate Science, Math, Arabic, and Quran teacher. 

My passion for Science and Math, which has always been there, has guided me to pursue a further education to becoming a certified Science teacher with a master degree in Education from Dominican University.

Something Interesting About Me

I enjoy and love nature. Actively involved in Boys scout of America. I am committed to make a positive impact in communities, and to make a difference especially to those who need it the most.

I am excited and pray for Tawfeeq and barakah Insha’Allah to continue my  journey as an educator at Averroes. I pray to be able to empower the next generation, to work hard, inspire them to dream big to reach to the stars, and most importantly to nurture their souls and minds to connect their knowledge with their values and beliefs to be proud educated Muslims Insha’Allah.

My Passion for Working with Youth

My aim is to empower students to become confident, independent, and critical thinkers to be capable of applying their values, the scientific knowledge, and the skills gained to solve real-world problems and make informed decisions in their lives.

I am actively involved in extracurricular activities, after school programs and clubs. 

Teaching Philosophy / Classroom Approach

My teaching philosophy is centered on honoring hard work, fostering curiosity, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging hands-on learning experiences to inspire students to explore the wonders of science and develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.

Mr. Atmar Mundu

My name is Atmar Mundu, a proud graduate of Southern Oregon University, where I spent five years immersed in basketball. Beyond the game, I organized basketball camps and one-on-one training sessions for young athletes, helping them grow and succeed. My passion for mentoring the youth stems from a deep belief in the power of knowledge and guidance. Seeing young people progress and succeed, both on and off the court, brings me immense joy. Now, as a PE teacher and administrative support at Averroes High School, I'm dedicated to helping the students excel in sports and life, knowing they can achieve their dreams with the right support.