Sr. Ola Alkhatib (Principal)
Ola Alkhatib is a passionate educator with a heart for nurturing young minds. She holds a Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science from Lakehead University, where she also received the Certificate of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education and gained experience in education and teaching.
Ola’s unique blend of technical expertise and a love for teaching has been shaped over eight years of working with university students at Lakehead University, as well as with kindergarten and higher-grade students in public elementary schools in Thunder Bay. Her work has extended to supporting students with special needs, where she has refined her ability to provide inclusive and supportive learning environments.
Beyond traditional school settings, Ola has successfully managed her preschool daycare for over two years, creating a warm and nurturing atmosphere that encourages young learners to flourish. Her innovative teaching methods and capacity to forge lasting memories have made her a beloved figure among students and parents.
Ola also brings a background in science and technology to her educational career, having worked as a computer programmer, tutor, and administrative coordinator. This diverse skill set enables her to incorporate innovative learning approaches, ensuring her students are well-equipped for the future.
Sr. Crystalena Webster
Sr. Crystalena Webster is an experienced English tutor with a Bachelor of Arts in English from Brandon University. Since 2021, she has taught children and adults of various skill levels through Preply.com online in the subject of English Language, including IELTS, OET and CELPIP. She is recognized for her patience, professionalism, and ability to adapt lessons to meet individual student needs.
With a strong background in tutoring, teaching, and student support, Sr. Crystal is passionate about helping young learners build confidence in reading, writing, and communication. She is committed to creating a positive and engaging classroom environment where every child can thrive academically and personally.
Sr. Abeer Noor
Sr. Abeer Noor is a certified ESL teacher with a Master’s degree in TESOL from Michigan State University and over seven years of teaching experience. She has taught students of all ages in Canada, the U.S., and abroad, specializing in English reading, writing, grammar, and communication skills.
As a Fulbright Scholar and recipient of multiple academic awards, Sr. Abeer brings both expertise and passion to the classroom. She is dedicated to supporting each child’s learning needs and creating an engaging, inclusive environment where students can grow in confidence and reach their full potential. She works closely with students and families to bridge learning gaps through personalized instruction.
As a practicing Muslim with deep respect for Islamic values, Sr. Abeer is committed to creating a nurturing and faith-centered learning environment. She strives to help students excel academically, develop real-world skills, and foster an appreciation for the Quran and Islamic identity alongside their academic studies.
Sr. Shafiqa Tawalbeh
Sr. Shafiqa Tawalbeh is a dedicated Quranic Studies teacher with over a decade of experience in teaching the Quran and Islamic Studies to children and adults. She holds a Master’s degree in Comparative Fiqh from Jerash University (2013) and a Bachelor’s degree in Principles of Religion from Yarmouk University (2007).
With a strong foundation in Quranic recitation and Islamic scholarship, Sr. Shafiqa is Certified in Hafs recitation through the Shatbia (2007) and has completed both introductory and advanced courses in the rules of Tajweed. She is also trained in the Noorania method, enabling her to effectively teach young learners how to read and recite the Quran with proper pronunciation and fluency.
Her 15 years of teaching journey includes roles at Dar Al-Bayan Islamic Academy (Saudi Arabia), Al-Noor Elementary School, and as a lecturer at Dammam University. In addition, she has contributed extensively through volunteer work, teaching Quran and Islamic Studies at the Conservation of the Holy Quran Society in Jordan and leading Quran classes for women in Thunder Bay, Canada.
Sr. Shafiqa combines traditional Islamic knowledge with modern teaching tools, holding certifications in ICDL and E-Learning with Interactive Whiteboards. She is passionate about nurturing a love for the Quran in young hearts, guiding students not only in correct recitation but also in understanding Islamic values and applying them in daily life.
Sr. Fareeha Azhar
Sister Fareeha Azhar is an experienced educator with a Master’s in Psychology and over a decade of work with children in both academic and supervisory roles. She has taught elementary students in multiple subjects and with additional expertise in Quranic studies and Tajweed, she combines professional teaching skills with a strong foundation in religious education.
Sr. Fareeha has devoted significant time to religious education and Quranic studies. She has completed word-by-word Tafseer of the Quran with Al-Huda Institute, pursued Seerah courses online, and spent more than a decade mastering Tajweed for Quranic recitation.
Br. Ammar Elnaggar
Br. Ammar Mohamed Elnaggar is a Quran teacher with a B.Sc. from Mansoura University, Egypt (2016), and a strong foundation in Quranic studies, Arabic language, and Islamic values. Currently enrolled in PhD. at Lakehead University.
Mastering Tajweed and recitation in Saudi Arabia, he was recognized for his excellence by the Prince of Jazan Region, and is currently pursuing an Ijaza in Quran recitation. He has extensive training in Al-Qaida An-Nouraniya and has been teaching foundational Quranic reading to beginners (currently at Thunder Bay Masjid).
With two decades of teaching experience in Quranic studies, Tajweed, Arabic, Quran memorization and recitation, Br. Ammar is dedicated to fostering a positive, faith-based learning environment for children and youth, using both traditional methods and modern online tools. His goal is to inspire love for the Quran and Islamic knowledge in the students through patience, respect, and engaging methods
Br. Mahmudul Hasan
Md. Mahmudul Hasan is a dedicated and caring educator with a Master of Education from Lakehead University and teaching experience in Canada and internationally. Since 2023, he has been a valued teacher at Al Khayr Academy in Thunder Bay, teaching Language, Social Studies, and Islamic Studies in a nurturing, faith-based environment.
Mr. Hasan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from North South University, Bangladesh, along with extensive Islamic education, including Daura-e-Hadith and a Kamil degree. His previous experience includes teaching English and IELTS, as well as working in writing and communication.
Passionate about nurturing young minds, Mr. Hasan strives to create a welcoming classroom where students can grow academically, personally, and spiritually. He believes education should build confidence, strong character, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.
Fluent in English, Bangla, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, and Turkish, he brings a rich multicultural perspective to his teaching and is committed to serving students and the community through education and Islamic values.
MD Saifullah Al Azad
MD Saifullah Al Azad is an Ontario Certified Teacher with over six years of experience in teaching, student support, and youth education. He holds a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education from the University of Dhaka and a Master of Education in Education for Change and Social Justice from Lakehead University.
With experience supporting students from Kindergarten to Grade 8, he is passionate about creating inclusive, engaging, and student-centred learning environments. His strengths include differentiated instruction, classroom management, curriculum planning, behaviour support, and building positive relationships with students and families.
He is committed to helping children grow academically, socially, and personally while fostering a respectful and welcoming classroom community. He strives to learn and incorporate Islamic views to the educati
