We are about to embark on a new school year, and into a new learning journey as we implement the new Redesigned BC Curriculum. We are more than sure that with your help and continuous support, we will continue making our school the best place for your children.
Our staff and administration are committed to helping every student work to their full potential. Our school strives to place a high emphasis on balanced literacy, numeracy, inquiry-based learning, and outdoor education, as well as to attend to students who are experiencing difficulties in specific subject areas and for students who are achieving above grade levels.
The school is committed to helping students become responsible for their actions. Our code of conduct is meant to help them reflect upon their actions and draw conclusions and lessons for the future. A variety of progressive discipline strategies are in place and will be applicable as required.
Nothing can be more effective in motivating the students and sustaining success in the school than celebrating their accomplishments. Celebrating success in the school system regularly breeds more success. It invites every student, teacher, and parent to join the team to celebrate improvements in academics, character, and leadership.
As you may be aware, in addition to the BC curriculum, AZIA offers rich Islamic Studies and Qur' any programs. Alongside Sister Sukaina Jaffer as the Academy's administrators, we are more than willing to do all it takes to make our school an outstanding institution, where our students are nurtured through mind, body, and soul. Such a mission will not be possible to accomplish without the full support and cooperation of our parent body and community at large. Should you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact us at the school office.
In the year 2000, there was a vision to start a Shia Muslim Elementary School in Richmond, BC. Under the leadership of Br. Mohamed A. Dewji, a school board was formed comprising of Br. Rizwan Hemraj, Br. Riyaz Devji, Br. Minaz Fazal, Br. Mahmood Merali, Sis. Navina Savory and Sis. Kaniz Jetha. The School Board worked tirelessly to ensure that the vision became a reality. By the grace of the Almighty (SWT), the Az-Zahraa Islamic Academy (AZIA) opened its doors for the first time on the 5th of Rajab, 1424 (September 2, 2003).
The first pioneers of the Academy consisted of 15 Montessori students (4 of which Kindergarten students) and 12 Grade 1/Grade 2 students. In its inaugural year, the staff consisted of three teachers Br. Jafferali Mussa, Grade 1/2 teacher, and the Head Teacher of AZIA, Sis. Shahin Virji, Montessori/Kindergarten Directress, and Sis. Fatima Sheriff, Montessori Teacher Assistant and Islamic Studies Instructor.
The School's Motto is "Rabbi Zidni Ilman Walhiqni Bis Swaliheen" "My Lord, increase me in knowledge and make me of the virtuous." The school became a fundamental part of the beautiful multi-purpose complex at the Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre, in Richmond BC. The school facility included eight full-size classrooms, eight small group instruction rooms, a computer lab, a library, an assembly area, a cafeteria, and a full-size gymnasium.
Az-Zahraa Islamic Academy provides a safe and nurturing environment that fosters exemplary Islamic education and substantial academic achievement.
Islamic learning inculcates 'taqwa' (God-consciousness) and is based on the teachings of the Quran, the Holy Prophet, and the Ahlulbayt. This builds a confident foundation of Muslim identity. Provision of a high caliber secular education includes excellence in academics. Children are motivated to attain their potential through curiosity and a desire for learning. We strive to meet the needs of all children and support ALL in an equitable environment.
Our role includes teaching social responsibility and creating global social awareness. We prepare students to excel in moral values and demonstrate exceptional character. We strive to provide leadership experiences and integration opportunities both within and outside our immediate community. We believe that leadership role offers the students a chance to give back to the community.
Integration opportunities increase the learning realm and allow for a successful future after Az-Zahraa Islamic Academy and larger Canadian society. The provision of extra-curricular programs complements our children's personal growth.
The school's chief responsibility is to prepare independent thinkers who have a good sense of right from wrong, through robust Islamic learning and wholesome secular education. Az-Zahraa Islamic Academy prepares children to become caring and contributing citizens of distinction.
Az-Zahraa Islamic Academy offers a quality preschool program to develop children at a multitude of levels, academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. This is done in an environment productive with Islamic values. We are licensed by the Ministry of Health, Community Care Facilities Licensing Branch, and the Provincial Child Care Regulations.
Az-Zahraa Islamic Academy offers a preschool using the Montessori Method and Principles. As a result, each child's needs are met on a physiological, emotional, and social level. His/her environment is filled with excellent materials for learning and the equipment designed to hold the child's interest.
The school's goals include preparing children for lifelong challenges, successes, and the world hereafter. They will have a strong sense of identity and should carry with them the knowledge, skills, and values to be a positive contributor to the community and society.
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