Kathy Dahdal shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Kathy, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something that has been bringing me joy lately is spending time in my own kitchen cooking. As a high school assistant principal and entrepreneur, I usually don’t have much time to prepare my own meals or explore new dishes—I’m often on the go and ordering food out. But since I’ve been off for the summer, I’ve had the opportunity to slow down and really enjoy the process of cooking for myself.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve become more conscious about my health and fitness, which has inspired me to try new recipes I’ve discovered on TikTok and experiment with healthier foods. I’ve enjoyed meal prepping, learning new cooking techniques, and simply giving myself the space to cook with care.
This shift has not only helped me eat better, but I’ve also noticed a difference in how I feel and look. I have more energy, which fuels the things I do best—like creating educational products, exercising more consistently, and taking better care of myself overall, even in the midst of a busy schedule.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kathy Dahdal, and I am both a high school assistant principal and the owner of Queen’s Educational Resources. Education has always been my passion, and through my business, I create resources that help teachers support their students’ academic and social-emotional growth.
What makes Queen’s Educational Resources unique is the balance it brings between real-world classroom experience and creative, ready-to-use materials. I know firsthand the challenges teachers face—time constraints, curriculum demands, and the need to connect with students in meaningful ways. My resources are designed with that in mind: they are practical, engaging, and often include sample responses and detailed guides so that teachers feel supported, not overwhelmed.
I started Queen’s Educational Resources as a way to share the lessons, activities, and tools I was already developing for my own students. Over time, it has grown into a brand that provides educators with hundreds of resources ranging from social-emotional learning bundles to academic skill-building activities.
Right now, I am especially focused on expanding my work in SEL (social-emotional learning). I believe helping students build confidence, resilience, and decision-making skills is just as important as academics, and I’m proud that my products give teachers the tools to nurture both.
At its core, Queen’s Educational Resources reflects my belief that when we empower teachers with strong resources, we empower students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
Without a doubt, the students. I’ve spent 16 years as a middle and high school teacher, and for the past 5 years I’ve been serving as a high school assistant principal. For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with and being around students every single day, five days a week.
They are the reason I do what I do. By observing them closely—seeing what they struggle with, where they excel, and what kinds of support they truly need—I’ve learned more than any training or textbook could ever teach me. It’s from the students that I gain the insight to create the kinds of resources that will actually make a difference for them, whether that means helping them navigate academic challenges or social-emotional issues.
At the end of the day, my work is rooted in listening to students, understanding their needs, and making sure that the resources I design reflect the real-world experiences they face.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
What I love about this concept is that there is someone who truly always listens—and that’s God. I have a strong belief in God and in His presence in my life. I know He listens to my daily struggles, no matter how small they may seem.
Whenever I speak to Him, I feel a sense of peace within myself. On the days when I feel unmotivated—which is something we all experience—I talk to Him just as I would to my mother or a close friend. And in those moments, I instantly feel relief, along with a renewed spark of motivation. For me, that is the greatest reminder that I am never alone and that there is always someone listening.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, it absolutely is. Anything I share about myself online is a genuine reflection of who I am. I’m a very simple woman who enjoys living a life that’s comfortable yet still full of growth and challenges. I don’t live a lavish lifestyle, and I’m perfectly happy with simplicity—whether that’s working on my business, which I’m so grateful to see growing, spending time with my family and dog, going for walks, enjoying a cup of coffee, or treating myself to takeout or a meal with a friend.
What matters most to me is being content with what I already have, rather than seeking to live above my means, and making sure I extend kindness to others every day. Sometimes that’s through a kind word, a note, a smile, or simply offering a helping hand. For me, living a simple, yet productive and kind life is what truly brings fulfillment.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when two things happen. First, when I’ve accomplished my goals for the day. For me, that means I’ve been productive with my time and completed what I needed to get done, so tasks aren’t piling up and weighing on me. When I’m in that space, I can truly enjoy the things that make me happy—like cooking, taking longer walks with my dog, spending time with my mother, reading the Bible, or simply relaxing and watching one of my favorite Arabian series.
The second is when I know my mother is doing well. She is the most important person in my life, and her health, comfort, and happiness play a big role in my own sense of peace. Knowing she is relaxed and content allows me to feel the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/queens-educational-resources
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queens_educational_resources/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QueensEducationalResources
- Other: Queen’s Clipart Gallery: https://www.queensclipartgallery.com/
Website: https://www.queenseducationalresources.com/
Image Credits
Freepik.com
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
