Her Story
About Khadija
Khadija Salaam is the Head of Schools at a K-12 private nonprofit school in Virginia. She and her best friend and business partner founded the online academy, which began serving students in 2020 after planning during the COVID period, initially offering grades 4 through 8 and expanding to a full K-12 program with a hybrid model that includes in-person learning labs. With well over two decades in the field, she began by tutoring in her local community before earning her bachelor's degree from Liberty University and her master's degree in Special Education K-12 Curriculum from ODU in 2019. She is currently a PhD candidate pursuing studies in educational leadership. Salaam belongs to the National Teachers Association and Omicron Honor Society at ODU. She attributes her success to her inner circle of support, spiritual leader, best friend, family, and colleagues and she emphasizes values of integrity, honesty, and trust in her work. Among current challenges in her field, she highlights the need to keep students engaged amid AI and technology advancements.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Khadija
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would attribute my success to my inner circle of support—my spiritual mentor who contributed to shaping my spiritual, moral and ethical compass, my best friend who believed in me, my assistance principals who worked with me, my family who emotionally supported and put up with me, and those who have supported me throughout this journey. I additionally think of my mother, aunts, and grandmother who are all professionals; they achieved high educational success and remained life long learners remaining a personal inspiration for me. No one succeeds alone. Behind every accomplishment is a network of people who encourage you, inspire you, pray for you, challenge you, and remind you to keep going when things get difficult. They have all walked alongside of me and are apart of every success and accomplishment.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never give up. Always choose love, hold on to hope, and keep your dreams in front of you. No matter what life brings, keep moving forward. Persistence, faith, and determination will carry you farther than you ever imagined.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Every woman has something unique to offer. Wherever you go—whether it's a school, a corporation, a nonprofit, or your community—you bring your authentic self, your passion, your compassion, your strength, and your vision. Never underestimate the power of your womanhood or the impact you can have. Walk confidently in who you are and know that you belong, not invited..
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe one of the biggest challenges educators face today is keeping students engaged in a world driven by fast-moving technology. Attention spans are shorter than ever, which means we have to be creative in how we teach and present material. It requires us to go the extra mile for every student, building relationships, making learning interactive, and creating experiences that inspire them to stay engaged both in the classroom and in their studies.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My values are rooted in honesty, trust, and integrity. I believe that no opportunity is worth compromising the principles that define who I am. Staying true to my values has guided me throughout my life and career, allowing me to lead with authenticity, earn the trust of others, and navigate every space with confidence and purpose. My values are not situational—they are the foundation upon which I make decisions and build lasting relationships.
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