Saeed Salem Abdullah Al-Zahrani

Saeed Salem Abdullah Al-Zahrani, a pioneering educator from Saudi Arabia, has dedicated over two decades to transforming primary education and fostering inclusive, innovative learning environments. Currently teaching at Al-Mutrafiyah Elementary School in Jubail, he has previously served at Najd and Imam Asim Elementary Schools, shaping generations of young learners with a focus on literacy, critical thinking, and personal growth. 

Al-Zahrani holds a PhD in Linguistics and Language Studies with honors, a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Arabic Language for Primary Education. His expertise spans early childhood education, special needs support, and the integration of technology in classrooms, making learning both accessible and engaging. His programs, including “The Challenge,” “Launch,” “Maher,” “Awn,” and “Preparation,” have been officially adopted in Royal Commission kindergartens and primary schools, earning widespread recognition from the Minister of Education. These initiatives focus on improving reading and writing, bridging educational gaps, and empowering struggling students to thrive academically and socially. 

Al-Zahrani’s innovative methods combine storytelling, cartoons, interactive digital platforms, and personalized learning approaches to reach every student’s unique potential. He has also contributed academically, publishing research in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at local and international conferences, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of education. 

A committed advocate for inclusive and global citizenship education, Al-Zahrani has trained teachers locally and abroad, sharing best practices and mentoring the next generation of educators. His programs emphasize tolerance, coexistence, environmental stewardship, and sustainability, preparing students to engage responsibly in a diverse and interconnected world. Notably, he implemented climate-conscious initiatives such as “A Day Without Waste” and energy conservation projects in schools, integrating these lessons into daily student practices. 

Beyond the classroom, Al-Zahrani is deeply involved in community engagement. He supports families, students with disabilities, and children facing social or psychological challenges, offering guidance, evening programs, and digital resources to ensure learning continuity. He has also promoted the teaching profession through media appearances, workshops, and the development of online platforms, including the “Steps” project, designed to teach Arabic to non-native speakers and English to Arab children through interactive stories, animations, and educational content. 

Al-Zahrani’s dedication has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Teacher Award in Royal Commission Schools, semi-finalist in the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award, and finalist in the Mohammed bin Zayed Award for Best Gulf Teacher. His story, rooted in his personal journey as a student who overcame early learning difficulties, reflects his lifelong commitment to transforming education, supporting struggling learners, and inspiring hope for students and educators alike