Bringing up Muslim kids in a non-Muslim country is not an easy task. And American Muslims may have various reasons for wanting Islamic schools for their children.
Here are some common motivations:
Preservation of Islamic Values:
Islamic schools often provide an environment where students can learn about and practice their faith in a setting that aligns with Islamic values and principles. This includes incorporating Islamic teachings into the curriculum and fostering an atmosphere of religious adherence.
Islamic Education:
Islamic schools typically offer classes in Arabic, Quranic studies, and Islamic history, providing students with a comprehensive Islamic education alongside standard academic subjects.
This allows students to develop a strong understanding of their faith and its cultural and historical context.
Cultural Identity:
Islamic schools can contribute to the preservation of cultural identity by creating a space where students can connect with their Islamic heritage.
This includes celebrating Islamic holidays, understanding Islamic traditions, and fostering a sense of community among students.
Safe and Supportive Environment:
Some parents may choose these schools because they believe these institutions offer a safe and supportive environment where their children can grow academically, socially, and spiritually. This may include smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and a community atmosphere.
Minimization of Negative Influences:
Concerns about negative influences, such as peer pressure or conflicting values in mainstream schools, may lead some parents to opt for Islamic schools. They believe that an environment grounded in Islamic principles can help shield their children from potential challenges to their faith.
Integration of Faith and Learning:
Islamic schools strive to integrate faith into all aspects of education. This approach aims to show students how Islamic values can be applied in their everyday lives and academic pursuits.
Parental Involvement:
Some parents appreciate the opportunity to be more involved in their children’s education in an Islamic school. These schools often encourage parental participation, creating a partnership between the school and families.
Preparation for the Future:
Parents may believe that an Islamic education prepares their children not only academically but also morally and spiritually for the challenges they may face in the future. The hope is that students will develop a strong foundation to guide them in making ethical decisions as they navigate their lives.
These schools not only offer academic excellence but also foster a strong sense of community and faith.
List of Best Islamic Schools in America
In this article, we will explore some of the best Islamic schools in the United States, highlighting their unique features and contributions.
11 – Iqra Academy of Virginia (Virginia):
Iqra Academy emphasizes a strong academic curriculum along with Islamic studies. It serves students from preschool through 8th grade.
10 – Islamic School of Silicon Valley (California):
This school is committed to academic excellence and spiritual development. It offers classes from kindergarten through 8th grade.
9 – Islamic School of Greater New Orleans (Louisiana):
The Islamic School of Greater New Orleans is dedicated to academic achievement and Islamic character development. It caters to students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade.
8 – Aqsa School (Illinois):
Aqsa School aims to provide a comprehensive education with a strong Islamic foundation. It offers classes from preschool through 12th grade.
7 – Qalam Collegiate Academy (Texas):
Qalam Collegiate Academy provides a unique blend of academic and Islamic education. It focuses on preparing students for college while fostering a strong Islamic identity.
6 – Universal School – Bridgeview, Illinois:
Universal School is a private school in Bridgeview, IL that teaches Islam, Arabic, and Quran. It’s a blend of Islam and education, and its motto is “Where Education and Islam Come Together.”
5 – Al-Noor School – Brooklyn, New York:
If you’re looking for a private school in Brooklyn, NY, Al Noor School is the perfect place for you! It’s a co-ed school that teaches Islamic culture and religion, with a curriculum that includes Arabic, Islamic studies, and the Quran.
Plus, you’ll learn traditional subjects like math, science, social studies, and English. To get into Al Noor, you’ll need to pass an entrance exam, go through a personal interview, and submit your school records.
4 – Al-Rahmah School – Baltimore, Maryland:
Al-Rahman School is a great example of a school that puts both Islamic and secular learning at the center of their curriculum.
They want to make sure their students have the right mix of both so they can be successful academically and still stay true to their Islamic beliefs.
It’s no wonder why they’ve become one of the top schools for learning Islam in the US.
3 – MCC Full-Time School – Morton Grove, Illinois:
If you’re looking for a Muslim school in the Chicago area or Illinois, MCCA is the place to go. They have pre-kindergarten, elementary, and middle schools in Skokie and high schools in Morton Grove.
2 – Islamic Foundation School – Villa Park, Illinois
IFS is a private school for kids from preschool to high school. It was founded in 1986 and teaches students about Islam, as well as other basics like math and science. It has about 750 students.
1 – Al-Iman School – Raleigh, North Carolina
Al-Man School is an accredited Islamic school that’s not public, not-for-profit, and doesn’t have to pay taxes. AdvancingED accredits it and is also a member of the CAI and the ISL.
If you’re a Muslim family in the US, you’re in luck! There are tons of great Islamic schools that focus on more than just academics.
They create spaces where students can grow and develop in all aspects of life, from academics to spirituality to social life.
Above, we’ve shared just a few of these amazing schools in the US that are shaping the future of our Muslim community.
