Jamal Aljahmi

Jamal Aljahmi is a member of the Dearborn Board of Education At-large in Michigan. He assumed office on January 1, 2025. His current term ends on December 31, 2030.

Aljahmi ran for election to the Dearborn Board of Education At-large in Michigan. He won in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Aljahmi completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Jamal Aljahmi was born in Yemen. He earned a high school diploma from Fordson High School, an associate degree from Henry Ford Community College in 1993, and a bachelor's degree from Davenport University in 1997. His career experience includes working as an IT Professional, community activist, and board president of three different schools. He previously served as a park and recreation commissioner and planning commissioner for the city of Dearborn. He is the co-founder of Concerned Residents for South Dearborn.^[1]

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Dearborn Board of Education At-large (2 seats)

The following candidates ran in the general election for Dearborn Board of Education At-large on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jamal Aljahmi (Nonpartisan)	22.8	14,300
✔	Submit photo	Amer Zahr (Nonpartisan)	13.6	8,534
		Jim Thorpe (Nonpartisan)	13.2	8,279
		Robbin Makled (Nonpartisan)	13.1	8,215
	Submit photo	Nasri Sobh (Nonpartisan)	10.5	6,582
	Submit photo	Silvio Davis (Nonpartisan)	7.9	4,979
	Submit photo	Steve Durant (Nonpartisan)	5.7	3,550
	Submit photo	Mark Trzeciak (Nonpartisan)	5.1	3,171
	Submit photo	Mohammad Mubarak (Nonpartisan)	4.3	2,689
	Submit photo	Jackson Wagner (Nonpartisan)	3.0	1,892
		Other/Write-in votes	0.7	461

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 62,652
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Ammerah Saidi (Nonpartisan)

Endorsements

Aljahmi received the following endorsements. To view a full list of Aljahmi's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

Jamal Aljahmi completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Aljahmi's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

For over 30 years, I have been dedicated to serving our community. As a product of Dearborn Public schools and long term community member I have a deep rooted commitment to our cities future. This commitment is what drives me to run for the Dearborn board of education.

I currently serve as a board member at three different schools and have the honor of being commissioner on both the recreation board and the planning board . As an activist in our community, I have led numerous youth programs, coach youth basketball, and co-founded the concerned residence of South Dearborn(CRSD). Additionally, I help lead the Hemlock neighborhood association, and serve on the Mosque Collaboration Board(MCB), where I’m also the mosque board president.

As a father and dedicated community member, listening to the hopes and concerns of our community has always been important to me. I believe that no concern is too small when it comes to the well-being of our children and schools. As I run for the Dearborn board of education, I am serving as a voice for all stakeholders in our district, ensuring that our schools are meeting the needs of all students.

These experiences and many more have given me a deeper understanding of our communities unique needs. This insight has strengthen my desire to enhance our educational system. As I move forward in this campaign, I seek your support to help collectively build a brighter, more promising future for our children and community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Addressing the Achievement Gap
Supporting and Retaining Teachers
Improving Education Quality

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am personally passionate about [Prioritizing the Budget] in public policy. Effective budget management is crucial and involves careful planning and setting clear priorities. My focus would be on aligning the budget with strategic goals, ensuring transparency in all financial decisions, and regularly reviewing expenditures to identify areas where we can save costs without compromising the quality of education. It is also important to ensure equitable funding distribution, addressing each school's specific needs. This includes providing additional support to schools with a higher number of disadvantaged students to promote fairness and equal opportunities for all.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to leaders who have made a significant impact through their vision, courage, and commitment to positive change. One example is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His leadership and dedication to civil rights and social justice have left a lasting legacy.

Visionary Leadership: Dr. King had a clear and compelling vision of a more just and equitable society. His ability to articulate this vision and inspire others to work towards it demonstrates the power of a strong, purpose-driven leader.

Courage and Resilience: Facing immense opposition and personal risk, Dr. King remained steadfast in his commitment to nonviolence and justice. His courage in the face of adversity serves as a powerful example of resilience and dedication.

Commitment to Equality: His work emphasized the importance of equality and human dignity, challenging systemic injustices and advocating for civil rights. Dr. King’s efforts to address racial and economic inequalities continue to resonate and inspire movements for social justice today.

Effective Communication: Dr. King was an exceptional orator, using his speeches to galvanize support and articulate complex issues in a way that resonated with a broad audience. His skill in communication is a vital trait for any leader aiming to effect change.

Empathy and Inclusiveness: He demonstrated deep empathy and an inclusive approach, working not only for racial justice but also for broader societal changes that benefit all marginalized groups. His commitment to inclusivity and understanding is essential for creating positive societal change.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

As a trusted leader, I am committed to supporting every student, every parent, and every teacher with the resources they need to thrive.

While the educational process has multiple elements, I will focus on three paramount components: students, teachers, and curriculum. I believe today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders. I believe teachers are the candles that light the way for our students’ futures. I believe a rigorous curriculum is essential for students to grow socially and academically. Every aspect of these three elements is key to success.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

I believe the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office include ensuring the safety and well-being of our youth by creating a secure environment where they can thrive. It’s crucial to provide a high-quality education that equips students with the knowledge and skills they need for future success. This means not only maintaining academic excellence but also fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where every student feels safe and valued. Prioritizing both safety and quality education is essential for the development of our youth and the betterment of our community.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave a legacy as someone who made a meaningful difference in the lives of others, characterized by ethical behavior, respect, and trustworthiness. Here’s a closer look at the components of this legacy:

Positive Impact on the Community: I aim to contribute in ways that create tangible benefits for the community, whether through education, advocacy, or support. This could involve implementing programs that address pressing issues, fostering environments where people can thrive, or actively participating in community service.

Ethical Leadership: I want to be remembered for consistently making decisions guided by strong ethical principles. This means acting with integrity, fairness, and transparency in all endeavors, and setting an example for others to follow.

Respect and Trust: Earning and maintaining respect and trust through honesty, reliability, and treating others with kindness and empathy is crucial. Building genuine relationships and being someone who others can rely on contributes to a lasting, positive reputation.

Commitment to Personal Growth and Learning: I aspire to be seen as someone who continually seeks to grow and learn, adapting to new challenges and opportunities while staying true to core values. This commitment to personal development can inspire others to pursue their own growth journeys.

Empowering Others: Leaving a legacy also means empowering others to reach their full potential. Whether through mentoring, supporting initiatives, or creating opportunities, fostering the growth and success of others can have a lasting impact.

Promoting Ethical and Inclusive Practices: Ensuring that ethical considerations and inclusivity are integral to any work or projects undertaken will help build a legacy of fairness and respect for all individuals.

In essence, the legacy I wish to leave is one of positive, ethical influence—where people remember me as a respected and trusted individual who genuinely made a difference and gave back to t

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

In the early stages of my career, I had the opportunity to gain diverse experience across several roles in the field of Information Technology. I started as a Manager of Information Technology at Ancor Information Management in Troy, MI, where I oversaw IT operations and played a key role in managing the company's technological infrastructure. Following that, I transitioned to Valassis Communications in Livonia, MI, where I took on a multifaceted role as a Developer, Business Analyst, and Project Manager, contributing to various projects and enhancing my skill set in both technical development and business analysis. My journey continued at Sage Software in Troy, MI, where I worked as a Software Engineer, further refining my programming skills and software development knowledge. I also served as a Developer/System Analyst at Accenture in Southfield, MI, where I was involved in system analysis and application development, adding to my experience in implementing complex IT solutions. These early career roles provided me with a solid foundation in IT management, software development, and project management.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One of the biggest struggles in my life has been navigating the many challenges that come with raising seven children. Balancing their needs, managing multiple responsibilities, and ensuring their well-being has often felt overwhelming, but it has also taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of unwavering support.

What is the primary job of a school board member in your view?

In my view, the primary job of a school board member is to oversee various aspects of the education system, ensuring transparency, accountability, and financial responsibility. This includes making sure that educational policies and practices are implemented effectively and equitably across all schools. School board members are also responsible for monitoring the district's budget and financial health to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and in a manner that best supports student learning and success. By maintaining a strong focus on these key areas, school board members can help create an environment where all students have the opportunity to thrive.

Who are your constituents?

My constituents include a diverse group of individuals within the community, primarily focusing on students, parents, teachers, school staff, and local residents. Students are at the heart of my efforts, as their educational experience and well-being are paramount. Parents and guardians, who are deeply invested in their children's education, also form a significant part of my constituency, as their insights and concerns are vital to shaping effective school policies. Teachers and school staff are essential constituents as well, given their role in delivering quality education and fostering a positive learning environment. Additionally, all local residents and taxpayers are my constituents since they have a vested interest in the effective management and success of our public schools.

How would you support the diverse needs of your district’s students, faculty, staff, and community?

To support the diverse needs of the district's students, faculty, staff, and community, I would focus on creating inclusive policies and programs that recognize and address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by each group. For students, this means ensuring access to quality education tailored to various learning styles and needs, including support for special education, English language learners, and gifted students. I would advocate for equitable resource distribution, ensuring that schools with higher numbers of disadvantaged students receive the support they need.

For faculty and staff, I would promote professional development opportunities and advocate for a positive work environment that values their contributions and well-being. Providing resources for ongoing training and encouraging collaboration will help staff meet the diverse needs of students effectively.

Engaging with the community is also crucial. I would encourage open communication and active participation from parents and community members, fostering a collaborative approach to decision-making. By creating partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders, we can work together to address broader issues that affect our schools and ensure that the district reflects and supports the diversity of our community.

How will you build relationships with members of the broader community? Which groups, organizations, stakeholders will you specifically target?

I plan to build relationships with members of the broader community by actively listening to their opinions and respecting their perspectives. It's important to engage in open dialogue and foster an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. My approach will involve finding common ground and working collaboratively to develop solutions that address the needs and concerns of all stakeholders.

I will specifically target groups such as parent-teacher associations, local community organizations, businesses, and cultural and religious groups. By engaging with these diverse organizations, we can gather valuable insights and build partnerships that benefit our schools. Additionally, I will reach out to local government officials and other educational institutions to create a network of support and resources. Through these relationships, we can work together to enhance the educational experience for all students and strengthen our community as a whole.

How might you support the mental health needs of students/faculty/staff?

Supporting the mental health needs of students, faculty, and staff involves creating a comprehensive support system that addresses their diverse needs. Here’s how to effectively provide that support:

1. Accessible Mental Health Resources: Ensure that students, faculty, and staff have easy access to mental health resources such as counseling services, crisis intervention, and support groups. This includes having on-site mental health professionals or partnerships with local providers.

2. Training and Awareness: Provide training for faculty and staff on recognizing signs of mental health issues and how to offer support. Awareness programs can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help when needed.

3. **Regular Check-ins and Support Services**: Implement regular mental health check-ins and provide ongoing support services. This could include anonymous surveys to gauge mental health needs and address them proactively.

4. Flexible Policies: Develop flexible policies that accommodate mental health needs, such as options for remote work, flexible deadlines, or leave policies that consider mental health as a valid reason for absence.

5. Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage a healthy work-life balance by promoting practices that prevent burnout, such as regular breaks, manageable workloads, and time off. This is crucial for both faculty and staff.

6. Create a Supportive Culture Foster a culture of openness and support where mental health is openly discussed and valued. Encourage a workplace and academic environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their struggles and seeking help.

7. Provide Educational Resources: Offer workshops, seminars, and materials on mental health topics, stress management, and self-care. Educate the community on coping strategies and resources available.

8. Confidentiality and Respect: Ensure that all interactions related to mental health are handled with the utmost confidentiality and res

What existing district policies would you like to change, or what new policies would you like to implement?

I were considering changes or new policies in a district, I’d focus on enhancing support, equity, and overall effectiveness in the educational environment. Here are some specific areas for potential policy changes or new policies: Mental Health Support, Equity and Inclusion, Flexible Learning Options, Professional Development, Work-Life Balance, Student Discipline and Behavior Management, Parent and Community Engagement and Safety and Crisis Management. By addressing these areas, the district can create a more supportive, equitable, and effective educational environment that benefits students, faculty, and the broader community.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Hajj Ibrahim Baydoun, Dr. Moe Sohoubah, Waleed Saif,

Describe your ideal learning environment for students.

An ideal learning environment for students is one that fosters a positive and inclusive culture where students feel both comfortable and motivated to succeed. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:

1. Supportive Atmosphere: The environment should be welcoming and supportive, where students feel safe to express themselves, ask questions, and make mistakes. This involves having empathetic teachers, accessible resources, and peer support systems.

2. Clear Expectations and Goals: Students benefit from having clear expectations and well-defined goals. This helps them understand what is required to succeed and allows them to measure their progress.

3. Engaging and Relevant Content: Lessons should be engaging and connected to students' interests and real-world applications. This makes learning more meaningful and motivating.

4. Diverse Learning Styles: The environment should accommodate different learning styles and needs. This means using a variety of teaching methods, materials, and technologies to reach all students effectively.

5. Encouragement and Feedback Regular, constructive feedback helps students understand their strengths and areas for improvement. Positive reinforcement and encouragement boost their confidence and drive.

6. Collaborative Opportunities: Group work and collaborative projects promote teamwork and allow students to learn from each other. This also helps build communication and interpersonal skills.

7. Growth Mindset: Cultivating a growth mindset where students are encouraged to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles can enhance resilience and a love for learning.

8. Physical and Emotional Well-being: A comfortable physical environment (adequate lighting, seating, and resources) and attention to students’ emotional well-being are crucial for effective learning.

In essence, a strong, supportive culture combined with clear expectations, engaging content, and attention to individual

What will you do to build a relationship with parents in the district?

As a parent myself, I understand the struggles and challenges that other parents face. I will make it a priority to build strong, supportive relationships with parents in the district by being approachable and open to their concerns. I will actively listen to their feedback and work collaboratively to find solutions that best support our students' needs.

I plan to create multiple channels for open communication, such as regular parent meetings, forums, and open office hours, to ensure that parents feel heard and involved in decision-making processes. By fostering a partnership with parents and offering my support, I aim to create a community where every family feels valued and empowered to contribute to the success of our schools.

What are your preferred strategies for faculty, staff, and administration recruitment?

My preferred strategies for faculty, staff, and administration recruitment focus on both attracting new talent and retaining our current high-quality educators. To keep our excellent teachers and staff, it's crucial to ensure a supportive and welcoming work culture where they feel valued and appreciated. This includes providing opportunities for professional development, recognizing their achievements, and creating a positive work environment.

For recruitment, offering competitive pay and benefits is essential to attract top talent to our district. We should also emphasize the district's commitment to a collaborative and inclusive culture that supports teacher growth and innovation. Providing necessary resources and support to help new hires thrive will encourage more educators to join and stay with our district. By focusing on these strategies, we can build and maintain a strong team dedicated to delivering the best education for our students.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Having worked for a government agency for a long time, I understand that transparency is absolutely essential. Financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental to building trust with the community. It's crucial that all financial decisions and processes are open, clear, and accessible to the public. This ensures that taxpayers can see how their money is being managed and spent. By upholding these values, we can promote responsible stewardship of public funds and ensure that government actions are aligned with the best interests of the community. Transparency is the foundation of an accountable government, and it is key to maintaining the public's trust.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Other survey responses

Ballotpedia identified the following surveys, interviews, and questionnaires Aljahmi completed for other organizations. If you are aware of a link that should be added, email us.

External links

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Candidate

Dearborn Board of Education At-large

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Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 14, 2024

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 14, 2024

[1]

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Jamal Aljahmi

Contents

Biography

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Dearborn Board of Education At-large (2 seats)

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

Other survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

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2024 Election analysis

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