Afreen Juveria, Principal
Mrs. Afreen Juveria has been a proud member of the MEA community since its inaugural year in 2017. Mrs. Juveria earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering but chose to pursue a master's degree in elementary education, carrying forward her family's longstanding legacy in the field of education. Being raised by two educators, Mrs. Juveria naturally possessed the inherent talent, passion, and aspiration to become a teacher.
As a principal, Mrs. Juveria firmly believes in unlocking the potential within every child. She recognizes that the key to unleashing this potential lies within the school system, where providing the right support and fostering an environment for children to thrive are paramount.
Yasmeen Ali, Secular Studies Teacher
Safaa Abdulsalam, Secular Studies Teacher
My name is Safaa Abdul Salam. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) in 2020. I approach my work with thoughtfulness and creativity. My hobbies are painting, arts, and crafts—activities that showcase my passion for creativity and self-expression.
Anisa Patel, Secular Studies Teacher
Sr. Anisa Patel is pursuing her bachelor's degree in early childhood education from NEIU. Her extensive volunteer work at her children’s schools has enhanced her skills to work in a classroom setting. She is thrilled to be working at MEA. She currently teaches First, Second and Third grades. In her free time, she likes to spend time with her family, especially her parents.
Mahiya Mastan, Secular Studies Teacher
Sr. Mahiya has a bachelor’s in pharmacy from India. She is also a certified medical coder. She is passionate about teaching, with more than 4 years of experience in different settings. Currently she teaches math to grades 3 - 7. She is extremely grateful to be a part of MEA. She enjoys painting and reading as hobbies.
Nuzhat Fatima, Islamic Studies Teacher
Sr. Nuzhat is a Quran and Islamic Studies teacher at MEA. Before moving to the U.S she lived in Saudi Arabia for about 18 years and completed her studies there in Arabic. Prior to teaching at MEA, she used to run a madrassa at her home where she had taught for over 15 years. She has a great passion for teaching and her time at MEA has been amazing!
Afsha Khan, Secular Studies Teacher
Sr. Afsha has a BA in Organizational Leadership. Sr. Afsha was born and raised in the West Ridge area on the north side of Chicago. Along with teaching, she also gives fitness classes to women and girls, and is also a senior caretaker. Currently she teacher fifth and sixth grades at MEA. She is very happy to be a part of the MEA family!
Safa Jaffar, Secular Studies Teacher
Sr. Safa has a bachelor’s in computer science and holds a diploma in interior designing. She started her teaching career three years ago during which she successfully completed various certification courses in classroom and behavioral management. She is a passionate teacher and loves to create an engaging and fun-filled learning environment for her students. In her leisure time, she likes to do DIY projects, art and crafts, and bake delicious treats for her family.
Saadia Shafique, Islamic Studies Teacher
Mrs. Saadia Shafique is from Pakistan, where she completed her bachelor's degree. She also completed her Almiyet Course from Sharia Board of Chicago.
Hafiz Abdul Rasheed, Quran/Nazirah Teacher
At the age of 15, Hafiz Abdul Rasheed completed memorization of the Qur’an. His sole passion is to teach Qur’an with Tajweed which he has been doing at Makki Masjid for over 20 years.
Fatemah Lakhi, Islamic Studies Teacher
Sr. Fatemah is an Islamic and Social Studies teacher at MEA. After completing her Alimiyyah studies at Shariah Board in Chicago, she has been teaching for over half a decade. Her experience with students from kindergarten through 4th grade has helped her develop strong classroom management skills and perseverance. Throughout her teaching journey, she has built meaningful relationships with her students, finding joy and fulfillment in her work.
Rubina Shelia, Teacher Assistant
Sr. Rubina moved migrated from India and has been living in the Roger’s Park neighborhood since 2009. She enjoys spending time with children and helping them learn and grow. She teaches and leads with care, compassion and patience. Her work is guided by the simple idea that every child blossoms with kindness and encouragement!