Zeinab Azzam

Kindergarten teacher Zeinab Azzam may have come into early childhood education through an unconventional path, but her passion impacts each child she teaches. One parent's nomination beautifully captures Azzam's dedication and impact at Islamic Academy of Alabama.

"Mrs. Azzam is not only the kind of teacher but the kind of person that’s deserving of this honor. She provides a nurturing and conducive learning environment to fit the needs of each individual child. She incorporates PBS Kids into her lessons, which her students absolutely love, and routinely goes above and beyond—whether reaching out to check on a child after a rough day or providing additional resources when needed. Her bright smile, sincere care, and positive reinforcement have transformed my son’s attitude about school. Mrs. Azzam truly embodies the heart of education and is a treasure to our community."

Get to know Zeinab Azzam!

Getting to Know You

What inspired you to become a teacher, and how did your journey in education begin? 

I have always loved being there for children in any way. My journey began when my 5 year old daughter's Kindergarten teacher got sick on the first day, and they asked me to fill the position. After all the hesitation in that moment I accepted, and it turned into a whole new journey I had not anticipated. A journey that has been incredible with each and every child the last 4 years of teaching.

What is your favorite part of teaching, and how does it keep you motivated?

It amazes me every time when each child reaches their full potential and exceeds it. I believe each child has a gift in their own way, and I am here to attempt to learn it and help them grow it, if and when possible.

What’s something unique about your classroom or teaching style that helps your students succeed?

Each student is unique in their own way. My goal is to help each one reach their potential while nurturing confidence, respect, and kindness towards themselves and others. Each child has a leader, achiever, and believer in them, and I am here for it.

Outside of the classroom, how do you recharge or find inspiration?
I am a blessed mom of three, expecting my fourth. My three beautiful daughters alone are daily inspirations. They are constantly giving me ideas, inspirations, along with plenty of patience. Being a Muslim, I am blessed to find the time to recharge during my daily prayers. It is a moment of serenity, peace and quiet in itself each time. My personal therapy time alone.

Classroom Impact 

If you could share one thing about yourself that your students or colleagues might not know, what would it be?

One of my years, I had a diagnosed ADHD student who is very intelligent. However, if you know anything about ADHD, we know it can show in many different ways….My student was very alert but to the naked eye, did not appear to be. I noticed them always tearing things, breaking, chewing, etcetera. They could not sit down for seconds at a time. They also loved to feel things. So I made the effort to find a way to purchase a few items that were incorporated into that child’s daily routines and activities. 

First thing I did was buy sensory stickers that were also motivational characters. I stuck one on their shirt or hand everyday to distract their fingers throughout the day in between activities. I also purchased sensory activities such as building farm kits and sticky men for them to build, take apart, and rebuild. They would sit and work on them during instructional time. I noticed the student would be fully attending to their activity, and when I asked questions, they were answering my questions while still building. THEY WERE PAYING ATTENTION ALL ALONG! At times, if they were interested enough, they would quietly clean up the activity, put it aside, and come join us on the rug. They just needed their attention accommodated to help them manage. Not to mention their kind heart and sense of humor.

Can you share a story about a time you made a lasting impact on a student’s life? 

I don't have much to share on this yet, as it is my 4th year of teaching, but I still have [students in] my first class I taught stop by and ask if they can please have me be their teacher.

What’s the most memorable moment you’ve had while teaching? 

Oh, I have had so many of them! From the field trips we have had, the activities we always do in class, to the national holidays we try to squeeze in, to the holidays we celebrate together in Ramadan and Eid. There was one year during Ramadan where my Kindergarteners raised enough money to pay for almost two sheep to feed the less fortunate in another country. I will always be proud of each and every one of them for all their kind intentions and efforts.