Meet the Principal
Mrs. Mirvat Sabbagh is honored to serve as the principal of Howard Elementary. With two decades of experience in both elementary and secondary education, she brings deep expertise, a passion for student growth, and a strong commitment to the Dearborn community she has called home since childhood. A proud graduate of Dearborn Public Schools and a parent whose children have attended DPS—Mrs. Sabbagh understands firsthand the hopes, challenges, and aspirations of the families she serves.
Mrs. Sabbagh holds a Bachelor of Science in Education with a mathematics major from Wayne State University, a Master’s in Bilingual/Bicultural Education with an English as a Second Language endorsement, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership. She also earned her Michigan School Administrator Certification. Her career includes teaching multilingual and mainstream students in grades 1–5, serving as a Title I Resource Teacher, and working as an interventionist, co-teacher, coach, and secondary assistant principal.
Throughout her career, she has played an active role in school improvement, assessment, and professional development at both the building and district levels. She has co-chaired numerous committees, led AdvancEd reporting efforts, and completed two Administrative Internships—one through university coursework and another through the Dearborn Public Schools Administrative Program. She currently serves on the District School Improvement Committee and on the Board of Directors of the Dearborn Education Foundation, supporting innovative programs that help all DPS students reach their highest potential.
Mrs. Sabbagh believes deeply that every child can learn—and that each child learns in a unique way and at a unique pace. Her leadership is grounded in rigorous, research-based practice, data-driven instruction, and a commitment to meeting the needs of every learner. She is a strong advocate for restorative practices, fostering a school culture rooted in respect, empathy, accountability, and community. Through authentic dialogue and relationship-building, she works to create an environment where students feel supported both academically and socially.
Collaboration, empathy, and open communication are central to Mrs. Sabbagh’s leadership. She believes that when educators and families work as a united team, students flourish. She is dedicated to nurturing an inclusive, positive school climate where staff, parents, and students feel heard, respected, and connected.
Mrs. Sabbagh looks forward to continuing her work alongside Howard’s students, families, and staff—strengthening relationships, inspiring excellence, and ensuring that every child is empowered to reach their full academic, social, and emotional potential.