
As I sit here reflecting on my journey, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. Starting my own consulting business, Altair Education Consulting, was not just a professional milestone—it was a dream realized, a dream that once seemed impossible in a world where “no” was a word I heard all too often.
Growing up in an immigrant family, life was full of challenges. Resources were limited, and the concept of chasing dreams sometimes felt like a luxury we couldn’t afford. The word “no” was more than just a denial; it was a reminder of limitations—of what we couldn’t have, couldn’t do, and shouldn’t dream about. But in those moments of limitation, I discovered my greatest strength: the ability to dream.
Dreaming was what I did best. In the quiet of my mind, I envisioned a life where I could break barriers, amplify voices, and create opportunities—not just for myself, but for others like me. These dreams were fueled by my humble beginnings and the unshakable belief that one day, I could turn “no” into “yes.”
Starting Altair Education Consulting was more than just launching a business—it was stepping into purpose. I wanted to create a space where education could empower, where inclusion wasn’t just a buzzword but a practice, and where students, especially Arab and Muslim youth, could see themselves reflected and valued. I wanted to use my experiences as a Palestinian-American, as a child of immigrants, and as a lifelong educator to make a difference.
Today, I’m proud to say that I’m living the reality I once only dreamed of. Altair isn’t just a business; it’s a legacy in the making. It represents growth, resilience, and the power of dreaming against all odds. It’s a testament to what happens when you refuse to let “no” define your future.
But the journey doesn’t stop here. I continue to dream—bigger and bolder than ever before. I dream of expanding Altair’s impact, of reaching more educators and students, of fostering more inclusive classrooms, and of leaving behind a legacy that inspires others to dream unapologetically.
To anyone reading this who feels stuck or limited by the “no’s” in their life, I want you to know that dreaming is your superpower. Dream big, work hard, and never stop believing in your ability to turn impossibilities into realities. Humble beginnings don’t define your end—they’re just the foundation for something extraordinary.
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Palestinian-American Educator with Over 20 Years of Experience Veteran Middle School Social Studies Teacher Dedicated to Promoting Equity and Inclusivity in Education. Abeer Ramadan-Shinnawi is a passionate Palestinian-American educator with a career with a strong commitment to bridging cultures and fostering inclusivity, Abeer has made a significant impact in the field of education, both as a teacher and an education consultant. Abeer’s journey began as a veteran middle school social studies teacher, where she leveraged her personal experiences as a child of immigrants to connect with her students, schools, and communities. Through her dedication, she created a dynamic learning environment that inspired her students to thrive. Abeer’s expertise extends to curriculum development, as she previously served as a resource teacher in the Baltimore County Public Schools Office of Social Studies. In this role, she led curriculum development efforts and provided vital support to fellow educators. She also played a pivotal role in fostering equity within the educational landscape. Abeer’s dedication to equity is exemplified through her role as an equity liaison and as the co-facilitator of an affinity group for teachers of color. Additionally, she created and facilitated a student support group that provided a safe haven for Arab and Muslim immigrant female students, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and support. She is a founder of the Arab American Educators’ Network and an active member of numerous teacher advisory groups, including the Smithsonian National Museum of Native Americans, EdLoc Culturally Responsive Social Studies Accelerator, and the National Arab American Women’s Association. Formerly the program director at Reimagining Migration, Abeer is now a full time educational consultant serving districts’ needs for social justice interventions at all levels. As a teacher educator, she has spoken at national conferences including National Council for Teachers of English, National Council for Social Studies, Association for Middle Level Educators, Welcoming America, Center for Black Male Educators, and various professional development events in various states. Her involvement in these organizations reflects her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. Throughout her career, Abeer has collaborated with schools, cultural institutions, and publishers to develop curriculum, content, and activities that authentically represent the perspectives of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students and educators. Her work has been instrumental in creating inclusive learning experiences. In 2019, recognizing the need to provide educators with valuable resources and insights about Muslim and Arab youth, Abeer founded Altair Education Consulting. Through this endeavor, she has been offering educational materials, professional development, and engaging speaking sessions aimed at amplifying the voices and histories of Arab and Muslim American communities. Abeer has authored numerous education guides for ABRAMS Books and has shared her insights and experiences through conferences, podcasts, blogs, journals, and newsletter publications. Her goal is to continue working alongside educators to empower students to share their narratives, fostering global equity and justice.
Abeer Ramadan-Shinnawi’s tireless dedication to education, advocacy, and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on the educational landscape. Her work serves as a beacon of inspiration for educators and students alike, as she continues to champion diversity, equity, and justice within the realm of education.