Governance Board Members

Dr. Akram Zayour

Superintendent

Dr. Akram Zayour is the Superintendent of Dubai International Private School / UAE. He has over 33 years of experience in education as a school leader, associate professor, co-author, curriculum designer and developer, educational consultant, digital creator and assessor, trainer, designer and developer of postgraduate courses, an external examiner (viva) for supervising Doctoral Degrees and Master Degrees Thesis, quality assurance team member for AdvancED and Cognia, a NEASC team visitor, and a researcher. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in English Language and Literature; a Master Degree in Quality Management; a Teaching Diploma and Master Degree courses in TEFL; a Ph.D. in Education Administration, and an accomplished Ed.D.( Doctor of Education Program) majoring in curriculum, instruction, and assessment. Dr. Akram has designed, developed, and taught postgraduate educational courses at many universities such as Lebanese University, Lebanese International University, the American University of Beirut in Lebanon, and Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University in UAE. He had been a Designer, Developer, Trainer, and Team member of the “Post Graduate Diploma in Curriculum Design and Development for the Arab States”; (UNESCO/ Geneva, Dubai). He has been a panelist, speaker, and presenter of many papers at international conferences. He is fluent in Arabic, English, and German languages. Dr. Akram has been granted many awards some of which are: “The Middle East Educational Leadership Award” from The World Leadership Congress and Awards on 4th Oct 2018 and also Granted “The Asian Education Leadership Award”, from The World Sustainability Congress and Awards, 10th Oct 2019.

Deborah Anne Mustafa

Head of Curriculum

Deborah is a dynamic and visionary leader with an extensive background spanning over two decades in various educational environments across the USA, the UAE, and Sudan, Africa, where she specialized in teaching English as an Additional Language (EAL). Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Deborah earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in American Studies from the University of Washington and furthered her education with a Master of Arts degree in Education from Antioch University, Seattle. Holding a Washington State teaching certificate for grades K-8 and equipped with TESOL training, Deborah is well-versed in fostering diverse and inclusive learning environments. Throughout her illustrious career, Deborah has embraced diverse leadership roles. From spearheading fundraising initiatives for urban school reform in Philadelphia to directing a Progressive educational elementary school program nestled on a lush 10-acre campus in the Eastern US, her impact has been far-reaching. Notably, she has led an esteemed international elementary school in Sharjah and served as the founding Head of Academics at one of Dubai's pioneering Project Based Learning schools.

A resident of the UAE for 15 years, Deborah is a proud mother of two remarkable adult children. Her insatiable curiosity fuels a commitment to lifelong learning, a trait she instills in her students. An avid reader and enthusiast of podcasts, Deborah finds joy in gardening, walking, swimming, and shares a deep affection for cats. Known for her appreciation of strong coffee and the arts, she brings a rich tapestry of interests to her educational leadership. Beyond her professional endeavours, Deborah is passionate about interfaith dialogue, firmly believing in the beauty of shared values transcending religious traditions, cultures, and nationalities. Her inclusive and holistic approach to education reflects not only her expertise but also her genuine commitment to fostering a global community of learners. For Deborah, education is not just a profession; it is a lifelong commitment to nurturing minds, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the richness of diversity.

Dr. Areej Ahmed

Head of Send Department

Areej Ahmed has a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction in Special Education and a Master of Education in Special Education, both from Ohio University. She completed Her Bachelor of Arts at King Abdul-Aziz University in Sociology in 2007.

Under a curriculum and instruction umbrella, her research interests are situated within themes of special education advocacy, Autism, behavior disorders, and the clinical model of teacher preparation.

Dr. Ahmed has published in Teacher Preparation and Readiness, Autism, Computer-Assisted Instructions, and Assistive Technology.

At Ohio University, she received an Outstanding Teaching Record Reward from The Patton College of Education in 2013, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. Dr. Ahmed was the recipient of The Ann Campbell Brown Distinguished Services Award from the Office of Nationally Competitive Awards in 2013-14. She was selected for The Outstanding Learning Community Instructor Award from the College of Art & Sciences in 2014 and 2015. Ohio University in 2015 nominated Dr. Ahmed for Provost’s Award Excellence in Teaching.

Research Interests

• Autism and behavior disorders.
• Trauma-informed practices in schools.
• Exploring effective interventions to support students’ emotional and social development.
• Culturally responsive teaching practices.
• Family-centered intervention and prevention for children at-risk.

Teaching Interests

• Evidence-based practices in special education and behavior management.
• Risk and protective factors affecting children and young adults.
• Transition services for students with disabilities.
• Strategies for promoting inclusive practices and culturally responsive teaching.
• Teaching strategies and accommodations for Mild to moderate disabilities.

Mr. Rami Sonboul

Head of Section- High School

Mr. Rami is an accomplished professional with a rich background spanning both corporate management and education. With a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from California, he initially spent 12 years in diverse management roles across the United States, where he honed his skills in strategic planning and leadership.

Transitioning to the educational sector in the UAE, Mr. Rami brought his corporate expertise to bear over another 12 years, currently serving as the head of the business department and the school's assessment lead. His dual experience has uniquely positioned him to innovate in academic administration, blending practical business insights with educational strategies.

In his current roles, he has been pivotal in curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and implementing effective assessment strategies, always with a focus on preparing students for the real-world challenges. Mr. Rami's leadership not only fosters academic excellence but also mentors educators, promoting an environment of innovation and learning that prepares students for future success.

Mrs. Rasha Al Nabulsi

Head of Section - Elementary

With a distinguished career spanning 25 years in teaching and administration, Ms Rasha stands out as a dedicated and visionary leader in middle school education. As the Head of Section at DIPS, Rasha brings a wealth of experience and a fervent commitment to nurturing and empowering students.

Rasha’s career has been marked by a deep passion for student development and an unwavering dedication to educational excellence. She believes that every student has the potential to excel and is driven by the aim to align her efforts with DIPS's vision of cultivating productive and innovative young citizens.

In her role, Rasha focuses on creating an environment where creativity flourishes and core values are instilled. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive and dynamic atmosphere where students are motivated to explore their potential and contribute positively to their community.

Rasha is also known for her collaborative approach with parents, recognizing that a strong partnership between home and school is crucial for student success. Her enthusiasm for working together with families reflects her belief in the shared responsibility of guiding and supporting each student’s journey.

Through her extensive experience and passionate involvement, Rasha Nabulsi continues to make a profound impact on the educational landscape, dedicated to shaping well-rounded, confident, and capable young individuals.

Rinkle Jadeja

Head of Section- Elementary

Mrs. Rinkle Jadeja is the Head of the Elementary Section of Dubai International Private School in Dubai. She has over 17 years of experience in education as a head of the section, Head of Department, Curriculum leader, Teacher Trainer, teacher, Coach, Mentor, Lecturer, and a NEASC team visitor. She has a Bachelor Degree in Education, a Bachelor Degree in Business Management; a Master Degree in Business Administration, a Teaching Diploma and courses in TESOL (Teaching English to the Speakers of Other Languages); a Cambridge International Diploma for Teaching and Learning, a certificate in UK Cambridge TKT- Teaching Knowledge Test, a certificate in UK Performance Learning Trained Teacher 240 Hours to face to face training, a certificate in Licensed Corporate Coach You- Facilitator and Trainer program. Additionally, she received the GEMS CORE VALUE TEACHERS AWARD for seeding the GEMS Core Values in the students and for working hand in hand with her team to make a difference in young learners for GEMS Winchester School, Dubai, in June 2012.

Suhad El Kassar

Head of Kindergarten

Mrs. Suhad has a postgraduate diploma in early childhood education and a master’s degree in special education with a focus on early intervention with more than 30 years’ experience in the early childhood education field.

Mrs. Suhad’s aim to empower and motivate every member of our community in achieving DIPS school’s shared vision.

Mrs. Suhad’s EDUCATIONAL VISION

All children can learn when the curriculum and instruction are inclusive in design and implementation to accommodate the diversity of learners. A successful learning environment can be achieved through high expectations, clear goals and collaboration with parents and educators.

Mrs. Suhad has a hands-on approach with children, parents, and staff, motivating everyone to continuously deliver an outstanding education and the very best childcare to the children.

Our aim vision is to be a centre of excellence for child development in the areas of holistic growth, as we strive to build strong foundations for their future by focusing on both the English and Arabic language. We seek to provide a safe and loving environment that encourages exploration and active learning and enhances the values and skills that children need to achieve their success in various areas of life.

Mrs. Suhad is passionate about partnership and collaborative working with parents and the development of the staff team to ensure that each child has the best quality of education.

We welcome every new family who comes to DIPS kindergarten with warmth and a fervent desire to see their children succeed. It is a joy and a privilege for us to work in partnership with our valued parents.