Tayyib Zaman
Dean of Student Affairs
MDQ Academy member since 2013
Tayyib Zaman is a dedicated educator with over 20 years of teaching experience, specializing in Qur’ān, Tajwīd, and Islamic Studies. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Stony Brook University (2006) and a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies from Al Maghrib Institute. He is currently pursuing a Masters in Islamic Studies from The Islamic Seminary of America (TISA) and a Masters in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education (ACE)
Since 2002, Tayyib Zaman has been teaching Qur’ān and Tajwīd. He has recited the entire Qur’ān to multiple teachers and has earned his Ijāzah in all 10 Qirā’āt according to the way of Tayyibah An-Nashr, the most advanced study in Qur’ānic recitation.
His passion for Islamic education and commitment to nurturing young minds have made him an integral part of MDQ Academy since 2012. In 2016, he was assigned the role of the Director of the Islamic Studies, Qur'an, and Arabic Department, where he oversees the development and implementation of the school’s Islamic curriculum. He also initiated and directed the After-School Qur’ān Program at MDQ Academy since 2017. He is also the director of the Full-Time Hifz Program at MDQ Academy, which was launched this year. Along with his administrative responsibilities, he teaches High School Islamic Studies and Arabic.
Outside of his role at MDQ Academy, Br. Tayyib is the Youth Director at Masjid Darul Qur’ān, where he actively works with the youth to foster their spiritual and personal development.
In his free time, Br. Tayyib enjoys playing sports and staying active, fostering a well-rounded lifestyle for both himself and his students.
Amna Baig
Dean of Academic Affairs
MDQ Academy member since 2009
With over 17 years of experience in education, Amna brings experience and a deep passion for Islamic schooling.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. Amna began her teaching career in Illinois, where she earned a K-9 teaching certification, and later obtained New York State certification for grades 1-6. She spent seven of her nine years in the classroom as a dedicated teacher at MDQ Academy.
In addition to her teaching experience, Amna has served as an Academic Advisor for an online Islamic school for the past decade and has spent the last five years as a Curriculum Coordinator at Hamza Academy in Valley Stream. Her knowledge spans curriculum development, teacher support, and fostering student success. She is currently pursuing a certificate in advanced studies for NYS School Building Leadership.
Amna’s connection to MDQ Academy runs even deeper—both of her eldest children are proud graduates of the school. Her unique perspective as both an educator and a parent enriches her commitment to MDQ Academy’s mission and values.
Yasmin Elnakib
Dean of Admistrative Affairs
MDQ Academy member since 2016
Yasmin Elnakib graduated from Stony Brook University with a Bachelors in Sociology and International Studies. She then continued her education and received her MBA in Management from Stony Brook University. Yasmin later graduated from NYU with a Master’s in School Counseling and she is a NYS certified school counselor.
As a dedicated high school counselor, she specializes in supporting students through the college application process, with a focus on helping them find the best-fit colleges where they can thrive. She believes that the key to a successful college experience is not only academic readiness but also alignment with a student’s personal strengths and values. By encouraging self-reflection and guiding students through thoughtful research, she helps them identify institutions where they can grow and succeed.
Using a strengths-based approach in counseling, she also empowers students to recognize their unique abilities and passions. This approach not only aids in the college application process but also supports personal growth and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond high school.
With a particular passion in helping Muslim American students develop a strong sense of identity, confidence, and pride as they navigate their academic paths, she is committed to creating an environment where students can honor their values while pursuing their academic and career aspirations. By focusing on self-awareness, resilience, and careful planning, she aims to guide students toward successful and fulfilling futures, both in college and beyond.