DEARBORN – Ibrahim Mashhour has been involved with Dearborn Public Schools (DPS) for many years now, but this school year, he was appointed to his most defining position yet, the district’s Director of Student Services.

Mashhour, who attended Henry Ford Community College and obtained Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Wayne State University, was an 8th grade science teacher before becoming an assistant principal at Stout Middle School. He also served as an assistant arincipal at Dearborn High and River Oaks Elementary. 

In addition to his duties at the schools, he also began a stint as the Director of the Physical Education and Athletics Department for DPS, a position that he still holds today while he heads the Student Services department.

Mashhour.

His duties as Director of Student Services require him to manage student related issues such as transcripts for incoming students, attendance, the student code of conduct and work permits. 

One of Mashhour’s tasks requires him to place bilingual students in the appropriate grades, which can be a tricky situation if the student just recently moved to the U.S. 

“We help get them placed in appropriate grades when they come from overseas. Sometimes the level of English skills can place them in either 8th or 9th grade and we have to make that determination. We also make sure they have the appropriate services they need when they come to the school,” Mashhour says.

Mashhour says he is especially satisfied with the district’s Athletics Department. He adds that with the help of Superintendent Brian Whiston, they have been able to provide top quality sports programs for students at minimal costs.

“We have more programs than most districts in the state and we only charge a small participant fee that’s considerably less than all the districts in our area,” he adds.

Mashhour says there’s only been a few challenges during his time at DPS because the district is always looking to adjust in order to cater to its growing Muslim and Arab American student population. But while the district has recognized Islamic holidays and included halal meat on cafeteria menus over the years, they must still follow state required policies that can be challenging at times. 

“Our superintendent is making sure that the schools are always servicing the Arab American community. We are always trying to do more from our end to reach out. We take into account the nationality and religion of our students and the needs and services that are required. There is still more to be done, but it is headed in the right direction,” Mashhour says. 

Mashhour can be reached via email at mashhoi@dearbornschools.org or by telephone by contacting the district’s Student Services Department at 313.827.3005.