Meet Zebo Shaazizova, a California-based teacher whose journey from ESL student to classroom teacher has profoundly shaped her learning, culture, and communication. Drawing from her experiences as an immigrant, a Muslim woman, and a mother, Zebo is passionate about creating inclusive environments where students feel safe, seen, and curious about the world around them.
You can also follow Zebo on Instagram.
Q: Can you share a little about your journey from being an ESL student to being a teacher?
I came to America in 2010 with absolutely no English—none. We arrived during summer break, and when school started, I started 9th grade. After assessing my English level, the school enrolled me in ESL classes, and to this day, I am still very grateful for that decision.
I loved my ESL classes. Being surrounded by students from all over the world, sharing our cultures, languages, and learning together was truly special. It’s something I still love.
As my English improved, I eventually earned an ESL degree. In my senior year of high school, I was taking regular English classes. Going from knowing zero English to sitting in regular classes was amazing, but also incredibly rewarding.
I will never forget my first ESL teacher, Mrs. O’Connor. He was tough, tough and tough—but I loved that about him. And Ms. Tappu, they shaped my journey in ways that I am still grateful for today. I am still in contact with them.
From being an ESL student to becoming a teacher myself, this journey will always hold a special place in my heart.
Q: What does it mean to you to teach while wearing a hijab, and how has that shaped your experience in your school community?
At first—I’m not going to lie—I thought too much. I wondered what people would think of me because of my hijab, how I would be treated, and whether I would be accepted.
Before I became a teacher, I worked as a teacher’s aide at my children’s school, and that experience changed everything. From the beginning, the staff and community were incredibly welcoming, kind and supportive. I was treated like everyone else, whether I wore hijab or not.
That acceptance meant a lot to me. It made me feel confident, proud, and comfortable with who I am. Now, as a teacher, I have nothing but pride. I see my hijab as my crown—it represents who I am, my values, and my strengths.
Students are completely comfortable with it. They’ve learned about it, they’ve asked their questions, and now it’s a normal part of who their teacher is. Teaching while wearing a hijab showed me that representation is important, acceptance matters, and that you can be fully yourself while doing the work you love.
Q: You are known for teaching students about Ramadan each year. What does that look like at all grade levels?
Each year, I visit classrooms as a guest speaker and teach students about Ramadan and Eid in an age-appropriate way. I create simple mini-presentations, followed by hands-on activities such as pictures, songs, and discussions for each grade.
I also prepare Ramadan goodie bags to make the experience fun and memorable. The goal is always to make the lesson engaging, fun, and educational, while helping students understand the meaning of Ramadan and Eid in an inclusive way.
Q: Why do you think it is important for all students to learn about Ramadan?
Representation and understanding of the matter. My kids always read and received goody bags at other school holidays, and I felt it was just as important for them—and the kids at school—to see their culture respected.
Teaching about Ramadan helps build awareness, respect, and appreciation for different cultures. It allows students to understand not only the festival but the meaning behind it. By sharing our cultures, we create space for inclusion, empathy, and cultural understanding.
Question: Children often ask about your hijab. What types of questions do you get?
At the beginning of the school year, students are often curious. Their questions are as innocent and genuine as “What’s that thing on your head?” or “Why do you always wear that?” Others ask, “Do you have hair?” or “Are you bald?”
My Special Ed students often ask funny questions: “What’s that weird thing in your hair?” or “I see your hair, yes!” when he peeks. I also hear “Why don’t you show your hair?” or “Can you show me your hair?”
Q: How do you create a classroom environment where children feel safe to ask questions?
I always consider the students’ ages and grade levels before answering. I keep my answers child-friendly and focus on culture and traditions rather than going too deep into religion.
I use simple, real examples and try to make it fun, sometimes I make it into a story, game, or activity. When students feel comfortable and respected, they feel safe to ask questions, and that’s how real learning happens.
Q: What message do you hope your readers will take away from these discussions?
I hope they learn that it’s OK to be curious and that differences should be respected, not feared. Everyone comes from a unique background, and that difference is something to be proud of.
Above all, I hope they will learn kindness, compassion, and that asking questions—if done respectfully—is a great way to learn about the world and the people in it.
Q: What advice would you give to teachers who feel unsure about discussing culture or religion?
It’s okay to feel insecure because that means you care. You don’t need to know everything or have perfect words. Start small, stay age appropriate, and focus on customs, traditions, and shared values like kindness and respect.
When teachers show openness and respect, students learn to do the same.
Q: Is there anything else you would like people to know?
Teaching should be meaningful, enjoyable, and focused on communication. We take on many roles—listeners, counselors, protectors, supporters—and whatever role a child needs, it’s important to express it.
I want my classroom to be a place where students feel safe, happy, and cared for. My culture is something I’m proud of, and I’m always open to sharing it.
Every student is different. I think of my students as part of a Trader Joe’s flower garden—full of different kinds of flowers. Each is beautiful, each is unique, and each deserves the care they need to grow.
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