STAFF
Principal
Leadership & Adminstration
Dr. Nasser Razek
After a teaching career of more than twelve years in educator preparation programs at the University of Dayton and The University of Akron, Dr. Nasser Razek decided to join us at IHA as the principal. With a vision for growth and excellence for IHA, his goals for the school are to reach a reputable level of student achievement not only in academics but also as successful Muslim leaders who are proud of their identity and religion with a full command of Arabic language. He also believes in the essential partnership between the school and the families to empower IHA students as they develop towards their thriving careers.
Director
Winfield Campus
Corzetta Mubarak
Director
Director
Colorado Campus
Wafaa Issa
Director
Principal Assistant
Colorado Campus
Rawaa Taki
-Principal Assistant
With a strong commitment to student success and school operations, Rawaa Taki serves as the Principal Assistant at Indiana Horizon Academy. Since joining the school in October 2023, she has played an essential role in supporting students, staff, and families while helping maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming learning environment. Rawaa oversees a wide range of administrative and operational responsibilities, including student registration, attendance management, facility coordination, family communication, and daily school operations. Known for her strong organizational skills, adaptability, and dedication to service, Rawaa values the partnership between families and the school community. She is passionate about creating a positive and supportive environment where students can grow academically, socially, and personally
Financial Officer
Colorado Campus
Ayu Amalia
Financial Administrator
Ayu Amalia holds a degree in Travel Business Management and is a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor. She brings experience in administration and bookkeeping, keeping systems organized and accurate. In her spare time, Ayu enjoys reading, learning new skills, and is currently expanding her skill set through a digital marketing program.
Homeroom Teachers
Preschool Teacher
Preschool – 5th Grade Teachers
Muna Aman
Mrs. Muna Aman is a Preschool English Teacher at Indiana Horizon Academy and has been a valued member of the school community for the past five years. Originally from Yemen and fluent in Arabic, she previously taught Arabic and Quran to young preschool students before transitioning to the English classroom.
Mrs. Muna is passionate about nurturing young learners with care, patience, and purpose. She takes pride in helping students grow into confident Muslim leaders rooted in strong faith, good character, and kindness. In her classroom, she emphasizes both academic success and character development, creating a supportive environment where every child feels encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive. Her goal is to help each student build confidence and develop the skills needed to make a positive impact on the world around them.
She completed Preschool Child Development Associate coursework through the Council for Professional Recognition and also completed ISPROUT Early Childhood Assessment and Kindergarten Readiness training through the Indiana Department of Education.
Preschool Teacher
Sameeha Alkhalidi
Mrs. Sameeha Al-Khalidi has been a dedicated member of Indiana Horizon Academy since 2013. Throughout her time at the school, she has served as an assistant teacher, an Arabic teacher, and currently as a Preschool Teacher in the English classroom.
She has extensive experience in classroom management, working with preschool and Pre-K students, creating engaging and fun learning activities, collaborating with colleagues, and maintaining strong communication with parents.
Mrs. Sameeha also holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, which has further strengthened her work in early childhood education. She is passionate about working with young children and supporting their learning, growth, and development in a positive and nurturing environment.
Arabic/Quran Teacher
Huda Oubaid
As an educator, I work to create a supportive and nurturing learning environment. I take pride in helping students grow into confident, faith-driven leaders. I emphasize strong academics and positive character. I am committed to guiding each child with patience and compassion.
Arabic/Quran Teacher
Nawal Fares
As an educator, I believe in nurturing the whole child. I take pride in supporting my students as they develop strong faith, character, and academic skills. I strive to build confident Muslim leaders. Through compassion, I guide them toward success.
Assistant Teacher, Young Preschool
Anissa Sami
Mrs. Anissa Sami serves as the Preschool Class Teacher Assistant at Indiana Horizon Academy. She believes that every child has a unique way of learning and strives to adapt to each student’s individual needs and learning style.
With seven years of experience supporting and inspiring young learners, including four years at Indiana Horizon Academy, Mrs. Anissa is dedicated to helping create meaningful and engaging learning experiences for children.
She is passionate about fostering a safe, vibrant classroom community where students feel encouraged to grow, explore, and view mistakes as valuable learning opportunities.
Kindergarten Teacher
Monica Soberri
My name is Mrs. Monica Soberri. I was born and raised in Valparaiso, Indiana. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Education and Music. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, my dog Roxanne, and my family. I knew from an early age I wanted to become a teacher like my grandmother to help young children flourish in school and in their future endeavors. I look forward to helping children succeed in their social, emotional, and academic development.
1st Grade Teacher
Nadia Shabbir
With over 20 years of experience in education, she currently teaches 1st Grade at Indiana Horizon Academy and is in her seventh year at IHA. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton.
Passionate about education, she is dedicated to creating an engaging and supportive classroom environment that encourages students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally while fostering a love for learning in young minds.
2nd Grade Teacher
Victoria Conrad
I have been working with education since my time at Manchester University. This was primarily done through teaching ELA to working class individuals for the English Language portion of my Bachelor’s. After graduation in 2020 with a double major, I moved to Oklahoma and began to work as a substitute teacher. While I worked exclusively with high schoolers, I did occasionally travel to the other grades based on what was needed in the local area. While I was subbing, my family pushed me to get a proper teaching license and move back home.
I did so, and acquired my license from Calumet College in Whiting.
As of current, I am licensed in ELA and Geography. I intend on communicating with my old university to acquire an official ELL one as well. Not long after, I acquired my Master’s degree in Education.
When it comes to teaching, I apply everything I’ve learned with a bit of my own flair. I’m an academic at heart and, as such, have a lot of knowledge about the things I’m passionate about. For me, the peak of entertainment is reading an academic paper on a niche topic. Teaching isn’t just limited by what the curriculum provides, but also the love of learning itself. It’s one thing to teach about the ocean, it’s another to see all the interesting creatures in it, like angler fish or how mantas can fly out of the air. There are over nine different ways humans learn, and stifling that only creates resentment towards what ought to be fascinating. I strive to achieve not only intrigue, but learning with different means, no matter how unconventional.
3rd Grade Teacher
Nadea Khorbotly
Mrs. Nadea Khorbotly is a dedicated educator who truly loves seeing her students thrive, bringing years of experience in mentoring and community building right into her classroom. She is a state licensed teacher and has taught the Third Grade class at Indiana Horizon Academy since 2021. Mrs. Khorbotly holds a Bachelor of Science in Middle Level Education with a focus on Math and Science from The University of Akron, a Master of Education in Higher Education from The University of Toledo, and a Transition to Teaching Certificate from Valparaiso University. Before joining IHA, Mrs. Khorbotly spent over a decade in higher education administration.
Mrs. Khorbotly’s teaching philosophy is centered on the idea that education is a continuous journey that begins with a strong foundation in the primary years and a strong relationship between school and home. Mrs. Khorbotly views parents as essential partners in the educational process. She prioritizes transparent communication to ensure that families are empowered with the strategies and data needed to support their child’s education.
4th Grade Teacher
Tammy Tiede
I love working at IHA. This is my second year teaching 4th grade. I have been teaching for over 30 years. I have a Masters Degree in Educational Technology and an endorsement in Gifted and Talented Education. I am a life-long learner and try to instill the love of learning in my students. I have worked as a teacher, team leader and a high ability instructor. I have worked with students from K-8th grade. During my career, I have worked at two charter schools, two public schools, a Catholic School and an Islamic School. I pride myself in building relationships with students, hands-on learning and project based learning. I like to write grants and take my students on field trips. In the summer, I like to plant flowers, camp and read.
5th Grade Teacher
Neely Frye
After more than fifteen years of experience as a teacher and substitute within the Lake Central School Corporation, Ms. Frye brings a strong background in elementary education and a deep dedication to helping students learn, grow, and reach their full potential. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Indiana University and completed additional studies in education, biology, and psychology at Purdue University.
Ms. Frye is a member of the National Coalition for Women and Girls in Education and has demonstrated her dedication to service through volunteer teaching at the Lake County Juvenile Detention Center. She is passionate about fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment while building meaningful connections with students and families to support their academic and personal success.
Middle School
Science Teacher
Adnan Alkharrat
As an educator, I work to build confidence and leadership in my students. I take pride in guiding them as Muslim leaders. I emphasize both academic excellence and strong values. I support their growth with care and compassion.
ELA Teacher
Jameela Madyun
As an educator, I strive to support each child’s unique journey. I take pride in helping students grow in faith and learning. I emphasize good character and academic success. I guide them with patience and compassion.
Social Studies Teacher
Umaimah Fatima
As an educator, I am passionate about developing well-rounded students. I take pride in nurturing their growth as Muslim leaders. I focus on academics, character, and compassion. I support each student with care and dedication.
Math Teacher
Martin Martinez
I’m the Middle School Math teacher for grades 6–8. It’s been a blessing to be around the children of IHA and I’m happy to return for my second consecutive year. I am a revert Muslim and accepted Islam about 2.5 years ago, alhamdulillah. I have a passion for math and hope to keep building strong connections with the students and be a strong role model for them as they grow and face challenges. I aim to maintain open communication with parents, staff, and students to help nurture the best Islamic school possible.
Assistants and Support Staff
Teacher Assistant 2nd Grade
Ala Estwani
Ms. Ala began her journey in education in 2020 after completing training in substitute teaching. She worked as a substitute teacher for one year at Crown Point Elementary, Middle, and High School before accepting a full-time position as a paraprofessional in the Applied Skills classroom in 2021.
During her first year as a full-time paraprofessional, she worked with third, fourth, and fifth grade students. For the past four years, she has worked with kindergarten through second grade students in Applied Skills. She has also completed trainings and online courses focused on supporting students with special needs.
Working with students in Applied Skills has been a rewarding and meaningful experience for her, and she truly enjoys helping students learn and grow each day. She looks forward to continuing her journey in education and being a positive part of the Indiana Horizon Academy community.
Teacher Assistant Third Grade
Hanan Estwani
As an educator, I am committed to helping students grow academically and spiritually. I take pride in supporting their development as leaders. I emphasize good character and responsibility. I guide them with patience and compassion.
Teacher Assistant, 1st Grade
Iffat Banu
Teacher Assistant, 1st Grade
Mrs. Iffat Banu is originally from India and holds a bachelor’s degree in Commerce and Computer Science, along with a diploma in Early Childhood Education. She also holds an Indiana teaching license and began her teaching career in 2024.
She is passionate about supporting children by being a positive influence in their lives and a source of comfort, trust, and encouragement. She strives to create a safe and nurturing environment rooted in Islamic values, where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to grow both academically and personally. Through patience, compassion, and meaningful connections, she hopes to foster confidence, kindness, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning in each child.
Teacher Assistant, Kindergarten
Muna Jarrar
As an educator, I strive to create meaningful learning experiences. I take pride in helping students grow into strong Muslim leaders. I focus on academic excellence and character. I support them with care and compassion.
Quran, Arabic, & Islamic Studies
Islamic Studies
Sh. Osama Estwani
As an educator, I am dedicated to nurturing each student’s potential. I take pride in guiding them as they grow in faith and knowledge. I emphasize integrity and academic success. I support them with compassion.
Arabic & Quran
Sahar Hamad
As an educator, I believe in building strong foundations for lifelong success. I take pride in helping students grow as Muslim leaders. I emphasize academics, character, and responsibility. I guide them with care and compassion.
Arabic & Quran
Nariman Issa
As an educator, I am committed to supporting student growth in every way. I take pride in nurturing their leadership and faith. I emphasize strong academics and good character. I guide them with patience and compassion.
Arabic & Quran
Mona Mohammed
As an educator, I strive to inspire confidence and excellence. I take pride in helping students grow into Muslim leaders. I emphasize both learning and character development. I support them with compassion.
Arabic & Quran
Amira Nour
Ms. Amira Nour, Amira Nour brings over 30 years of experience teaching Quran, Arabic, and Islamic Studies. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English, an Educational Diploma from the School of Islamic and Arabic Studies at American Open University, as well as certifications in Ijazah and Al-Qaeda Al-Noorania. Her dedication to Islamic education and passion for nurturing students have made a lasting impact on generations of learners.
Islamic Studies
Ms. Mehmed
With over 16 years of experience working with youth, Ms. Mehmed has dedicated her efforts to mentoring, teaching, and guiding young learners in both educational and spiritual development. As a youth leader and regular lecturer, she has delivered impactful talks and served as a keynote speaker at several masajid, engaging diverse audiences.
She pursued formal studies through the Islamic Online University, earning a General Diploma in Islamic Studies, which strengthened her foundation in Islamic knowledge and teaching methodology. In 2017, she served as an assistant teacher with Al Qalam Academy group, supporting elementary-level history instruction.
She currently teaches Islamic Studies for KG through 4th grade at IHA, where she is committed to creating a positive, engaging learning environment that nurtures both strong character and a connection to faith.
Arabic & Quran
Hanan Salama
/Hanan Hashem Salameh graduated from the University of Jordan with a bachelor’s degree in Economics. She began her teaching career in Jordan, where she taught Math and Arabic for five years, including teaching students who were not fluent in Arabic.
After moving to the United States in 2004, she continued teaching Arabic, Quran, and Islamic Studies at private Islamic and weekend schools. Since joining Indiana Horizon Academy in 2013, she has been teaching Quran, Arabic, and Islamic Studies.
She holds certifications in Child Development (CDA), Al-Qaida Al-Nooraniya (Tajweed), and Professional Digital Teaching. She is passionate about working with young children and creating a positive learning environment rooted in faith, kindness, and strong Islamic values.
Arabic & Quran
Assiya Belhaouari
With 16 years of teaching experience in the United States, she is a dedicated educator in Quran, Arabic, and Islamic Studies. She holds a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies with a specialization in Quran and its Sciences, along with an Ejazah in Quran, an Ijazah in Nurania, and certification in Learning Disabilities. Having served at Indiana Horizon Academy for more than 8 years, she brings deep knowledge, patience, and a nurturing spirit to every classroom.
She finds great joy in helping children discover the beauty and wisdom of the Quran while building their confidence from the very beginning. She especially enjoys working with young learners and supporting each child’s unique learning journey with care, encouragement, and compassion.