The Islamic studies curriculum is based exclusively on the Jafferi school of thought, although other schools of thought are respected and recognized. Daily congregational prayer is offered at midday. Students are encouraged to practice the daily prayers based on the jurisprudence that is practiced within their homes. The IQRA (Islamic Studies, Qur’an, Recitation, Arabic) department focuses on the following:
At the pre-school level, children begin to learn the Arabic alphabet, develop understanding of basic Islamic adab/akhlaq (manners/ethics) and other Ahkam (Islamic Laws) such as salat, wudhu, names of the Islamic months, and the main pillars of Islam, to name a few. In the later years, they are taught and encouraged to memorize select Surahs from the last Juz if the Qur’an.
At the elementary grades, students are taught to read the Qur’an with the correct pronunciation. They are taught and encouraged to memorize the remainder of Surahs from the last Juz. Additional emphasis is laid on teaching Islamic Akhkaq (Islamic Ethics) and Ahkam, and a special celebration is held for girls that turn 10 years of age that have reached Islamic maturity, at which time new responsibilities regarding salat, wudhu, and other required acts are discussed and taught.
Finally, in the Middle and High School, advanced Tajweed is the focus until students begin to read fluently. Emphasis is on Arabic grammar, Tafseer of the Qur’an, Tareekh (Islamic history), and memorization / recitation of additional Surahs which are not from the last Juz. Students are involved in discussions around various individual and social subjects which relate to the daily lives and are taught to analytically approach religious understanding. Hands-on, research and debate methods assistant pragmatic application of Islamic laws and topics, such as his Hijab, family law, and other relevant issues pertaining to their age group.