Amal School Principals Go the Extra Mile: A Spotlight on Amal Zarzir

Zarzir High School, under the leadership of Principal Foad Gadir, serves as an inspiring example of educational transformation in Israel’s northern periphery. In his interview with Haim Hecht, principal Foad Gadir offered a vivid portrait of a school deeply committed to empowering Bedouin youth facing both social challenges and academic hurdles. With empathy and determination, Foad and his team create a nurturing environment where each student’s strengths are recognized, and every success, no matter how small, is celebrated.

Foad’s vision is rooted in holistic growth and community building. Each day at Zarzir, students are encouraged to find their voice and dignity through innovative teaching methods, personal mentoring and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom. Foad’s leadership ensures that no student slips through the cracks; his focus on relationship building, resilience and self worth offers stability even through periods of social or political uncertainty.

Despite these challenges, Zarzir High School stands out as a beacon of progress, proud to be one of the 50 schools in the Amal Educational Network, a system renowned for its diversity and commitment to excellence. Foad expresses deep pride in being part of this national school network, which supports schools across Israel with resources, technology, and shared societal values while letting each principal adapt those tools to their unique community. Zarzir, under his leadership, demonstrates how local initiative paired with national vision can empower students to overcome barriers and pursue meaningful futures.

The story of Zarzir High School is, above all, a celebration of possibility. Through Principal Foad’s hands-on guidance and the school’s thriving partnership with Amal, students discover hope and build the skills they need to shape their communities for the better.