Last week, Huron Arabic teacher Shaima Basuni thought she was coming to Principal Che Carter’s office to discuss scheduling for next year, instead she was surprised by members of the A2Y Chamber’s Teacher of the Year Committee. Basuni received the 2025 LaFontaine Teacher of the Year’s Commendable Teacher award.
Bank of Ann Arbor Branch Manager David Norton shared with Basuni parts of a few of the nomination letters highlighting why she was being recognized as a representative of the great contribution teachers make in Washtenaw County.
A fellow Huron teacher shared in her Nomination letter, “Shaima Basuni embodies the qualities that the LaFontaine Teacher Award seeks to recognize: dedication, innovation, leadership, and a true commitment to student success. Her work in language education, student advocacy, and cultural inclusion has profoundly impacted both Huron High School and the broader Ann Arbor community. I wholeheartedly recommend her for this prestigious honor.”
Another nomination was shared by one of Basuni’s students, “The thing I personally appreciate the most about her, is that Ms. Basuni makes her students feel like family. She always takes the time to check in on her students emotionally. She’s the kind of teacher who notices when someone is upset and actually takes the time to ask if they’re okay. I know for a fact that her advice and support have helped me personally, as well as so many others.”
The student added, “Beyond that, Ms. Basuini plays a huge role in helping new immigrant students adapt to the school environment. She makes sure they feel welcome, supports them as they adjust to a new culture, and helps them navigate the challenges of starting fresh in a different country. Because of her, many students who might have felt lost or isolated instead find a place where they feel safe and included.”
As part of the recognition, Basuni received $500 from LaFontaine automotive group. Funds Basuni says will be put back into her classroom. “This is my home. I’m the daughter of AAPS, I will always be a daughter here and I don’t want to leave my students until I retire,” Basuni says.
Huron Principal Che Carter says without Ms. Basuni that the school would be a completely different place. “Thank you for all of the advocacy you do for all students and staff,” Carter said. “You are one of the most caring people I have ever met in my life and your professionalism is always A-1, so thank you for all you do for all of the students and all of us at Huron High School. You deserve this and congratulations.”
Basuni and two other Washtenaw County educators that received recognition from the 2025 LaFontaine Teacher of the Year program will be celebrated at the A2Y Chamber’s Early Edition breakfast on Wednesday, May 21st at the Washtenaw Intermediate School District’s Teaching and Learning Center. Information on tickets for the event is available here.
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