Samantha Sanchez, Vice Principal, Early Childhood and Elementary School

 

In the 17 years that I have been in the education field, I have had the pleasure of working for some amazing institutions. However, it is Darul Arqam School that has become my home.   

 

I received my undergraduate degree at Fordham University in Anthropology and Latin American Studies.  During that time, I worked as the Assistant to the Director of Parkway School, a Preschool-6th Grade, private institution in New York. Later, I went on to receive an MA in Anthropology from SUNY Buffalo. I had the pleasure of teaching as an adjunct professor in St. John’s University in New York. It was during that time I decided to pursue my MSEd.  I began teaching in Miraj Islamic School in NY. During my 4 years there, I was a first grade teacher and later became the Department Head of Language Arts. 

 

After receiving my MSEd, I became the Principal of Iqra Academy in Richmond, Virginia. This was an amazing experience in a Nursery-6th setting. Later, our family moved to the New Jersey area and I was fortunate to become a staff member of Darul Arqam School. I began teaching first grade. Two years ago, I became the Early Childhood Administrator and last year I was the 5th Grade teacher in addition to my administrative capacity.

 

During my time in DAS, I had the opportunity to get a post-Masters Certificate in Islamic Teacher Preparation from the University of Toronto. This unique program prepares teachers and administrators to approach inculcating Islamic values in students through all subjects using prophetic traditions and teachings. A lifelong learner, I am currently pursuing my certification in Administration.

 

Alhamdulillah, I am pleased to be a part of Darul Arqam School for the last 5 years. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with our amazing staff and families in this capacity. As we approach the new year and the challenges it brings, I know that together we will rise to the challenge.  I can be reached at samantha.sanchez@darularqam.org.

 

 

 

 

Saad Ibrahim, Vice Principal, Middle School and High School

 

The 2014-2015 school year marks my 23rd year as an educator.  This school year will be my third year at Darul Arqam School as High School Administrator and Vice Principal.  I am very excited to work with such a dedicated staff, hard-working students, supportive parents and caring community. 

 

 I began my teaching career as an adjunct professor at the City University of New York CUNY since 1992, after I received my Bachelor and Master of Science in Engineering degrees from CUNY and Manhattan College respectively. 

 

In 1995, I was hired as a math and science teacher at Al-Noor School in Brooklyn for both middle and high school. After five years of teaching math and science, I was appointed as the head of the Mathematics Department. One year later,  I was appointed as an Assistant Principal. Two years later, I became the Principal of Al-Noor High School.

 

I feel honored to be the Vice Principal at Darul Arqam School – Middle School and High School. I look forward to all of the new challenges we will face together and to all the successes we will achieve together. I invite you to contact me with any questions or concerns anytime at 732-238-0038 or email me at saad.ibrahim@darularqam.org.