Prior to coming to SIATech, Mr. Abdul-Qawi held several leadership roles including teacher, high school dean, assistant principal, and coordinator of a high school intervention program. “In every role, there are constant themes. Foremost, recognition of the privilege to serve and leverage the position to maximize opportunities to help students develop. Second, innovate. Third, grow,” said Mr. Abdul-Qawi.
Mr. Abdul-Qawi has earned a B.A. in History, M.Ed. in Cross-Cultural Teaching and an Administrative Services Credential.
Over the years, he has made a large impact at the schools he served. This includes growing AP course offerings, increasing number of students taking AP Exams and earning scores of 3 and higher. He also instituted innovative CTE courses such as coding, robotics, entrepreneurialism, and modern dance. “We were able to achieve a great deal via collaboration. As an administrator much of our work is being aware of students needs and interests and tapping into the expertise and passion of our teachers. That tapping in demands that we support teachers (morale, time, financially) to bring the ideas to fruition,” said Mr. Abdul-Qawi.
Mr. Abdul-Qawi has already made ambitious goals for the future of SIATech DTLA. He shared that he wants to continue to build upon SIATech’s student success.
“The long term (4-5 years), we will see SIATech Technicians attaining post secondary educational degrees, completing professional apprenticeships (licenses, credentials), enlisted in the Armed Forces, engaged in successful entrepreneurial endeavors and more,” said Mr. Abdul-Qawi.
He shared some of his top priorities when stepping into his new role are to ensure that he recognizes the inherent values and talents of all students, staff, families and partners. “High expectations, superseded only by a deep sense of commitment and care for our school community. In short, it is my responsibility to collaboratively lead in the development of an environment that provides opportunities for the taking of “safe, healthy risks” by students and staff with the goal of helping staff and students make demonstrable steps towards self-actualization,” said Mr. Abdul-Qawi.
During his free time Mr. Abdul-Qawi enjoys spending time with his family, reading, chess, listening to music, and finding new cool spots in L.A., especially restaurants. A fun fact about Mr. Abdul-Qawi is that, though out of his comfort zone, he did some acting work as an extra.
When asked if there was anything else he’d like to add, he shared: “I love to see people happy. I love to see people realize their potential. It is a blessing and a privilege to participate in the process. This is what brings me joy, both professionally and personally.”
Welcome Mr. Abdul-Qawi, we are thrilled to have you on board and look forward to seeing your visions come to life!
