In 2023, we shared the story of how Family Engagement Specialist Nabatah Ahmed transformed feelings of isolation into connection through the creation of the Arab American Affinity Group at Berkeley Arts Magnet (BAM). Funded by a LEARNING for Equity Grant from the Berkeley Public Schools Fund, this initiative was created to nurture a space where Arab American students could explore and celebrate their identities—and where a stronger sense of community could take root.
Now, as we mark the third and final year of our grant support—and following a vibrant celebration of Arab American Heritage Month in April—we reflect on the profound impact this group has had on students, families, and the BAM community.
A Space Where Belonging Is Felt
Over the past three years, the Arab American Affinity Group has evolved into something powerful: a trusted space where students feel seen, affirmed, and proud. Each gathering has offered students the chance to learn about Arab American scholars, artists, and history, study language, and celebrate culture together—often while designing something to share with the wider school community, such as the group’s annual Arab American Heritage Month bulletin board.
But beyond the activities, it’s the relationships that have shaped this group into a community.
“Creating this space and coming together as a small community continues to spark so much joy within the group,” Nabateh shares. “For many of the students, it’s a rare and meaningful opportunity to connect with their siblings during the school day, bridging the gap between grade levels and strengthening family bonds during our group sessions.”
And the group’s impact has rippled outward. Students who are not Arab American have also been drawn to the space—showing up with open hearts and helping cultivate an environment of inclusion.
“Their participation reflects a deep sense of love, appreciation, and acceptance that enriches the entire group,” she adds. “This Arab American student affinity space has become more than just a gathering; it’s a place where belonging is felt, identities are affirmed, and community is truly celebrated.”
Centering Community Through Celebration
This April, the group took their celebration of Arab American Heritage Month to a new level with a joyful, schoolwide event. Nabatah invited an Arab American dance group to perform for the entire BAM community—a vibrant showcase of music, movement, and culture that brought students, educators, and families together. 
“This event not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of Arab dance but also provided an interactive experience where students could engage directly with the performers on stage. Through this celebration, students, educators, staff, and families were immersed in the vibrant rhythms and unique sounds of traditional Arab instruments, fostering appreciation, understanding, and unity across our school community.”
Photos from the performance captured students’ joy, curiosity, and connection—making clear how much these experiences matter in shaping inclusive school culture.
A Lasting Legacy
While our grant funding concludes this year, the Arab American Affinity Group’s legacy is just beginning. What started with a seed grant through the Schools Fund has become a core part of the school’s identity—one embraced and supported by BAM’s administration, families, and PTA.
This transition is exactly what our LEARNING for Equity grants are designed to do: spark initiatives that respond to the lived experiences of students, affirm identity, and grow into enduring and enriching programs in our schools.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this final year of Schools Fund grant funding, we also celebrate the enduring impact of the Arab American Affinity Group—and the vision and care Nabatah has poured into it. Through her leadership and the resilience of students, this space has become more than an affinity group. It’s a home for culture, community, and joy. 
The Berkeley Public Schools Fund remains committed to supporting programs like this—programs that help build more equitable public schools, where students of all backgrounds feel seen, valued, and connected to their learning.
Learn more about our Equity Grants.