FAQ

 

General Information: What is an Islamic School? What is Al-Amal all about? What does Al-Amal School offer? How successful is Al-Amal School? How many students are in Al-Amal school and what are their demographics? Where can I get more information? How can I contact Al-Amal?	For Parents: Why should I send my child to Al-Amal? Does Al-Amal have space for my child? What are the admission requirements? How much does it cost (tuition rates)? Is financial aid available? What is the parent's role at Al-Amal? Does Al-Amal offer transportation? Is it possible to visit the school?
For Teachers: How can a teacher apply for a teaching position?

 

Q: What is an Islamic School? A: Full-time Islamic schools are the most recent phenomenon of the Islamic education movement in America. They represent a shift towards a more comprehensive approach by preserving Islamic identity and Muslim heritage for the community at large and for the children in particular. The mission of full-time Islamic schools can be thought of along two tracks: defensive and proactive. The defensive line strives to “shield” and “protect” the children from any harmful influences that are against Islamic morals and ethics. The proactive line seeks to nurture the intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual growth of Muslim children with the hope of producing confident, competent individuals who will be able to go out into American society and contribute positively without compromising their Islamic beliefs and/or practices.   Go to top
Q: What is Al-Amal School all about? A: Al-Amal School is an NCA accredited [more info], full-time Islamic school located in Fridley, Minnesota. It is housed in a former elementary school building. Al-Amal School is an independent, non-profit organization and not affiliated with or governed by any other local, national, or international organization. Al-Amal School started in September of 1994 and was founded by parents and community members who wanted an alternative to public school for their children. Al-Amal School serves Muslim children and their families from the Twin Cities and their surrounding suburbs. Al-Amal School provides instruction in the following subjects: language arts, math, science, social studies, Arabic language, Quran, Islamic studies, and physical education. In addition several extra-curricular activities are offered such as Islamic arts, calligraphy, Robotics Club, soccer, Karate and more.   Go to top
Q: What does Al-Amal School offer? A: Al-Amal School offers: Qualified and committed teachers Low student-to-teacher ratio High commitment to academic excellence An academic curriculum designed to exceed all state standards for Preschool and grades K through 12 (Grades 11 and 12 only for PSEO students). Arabic, Quran, and Islamic studies Strong moral guidance Parental involvement in the educational process A multi-cultural staff and student population Affordable private education Financial aid for qualified low-income families and excelling students A modern school facility owned by Muslims A well-rounded program including physical, intellectual, and artistic stimulation Go to top
Q: How successful is Al-Amal School? A: The IOWA Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) results of 2003/2004 confirm that we are on the right track: by and large our results are above the national average and continuously improving! The ITBS is a nationwide standardized test that measures basic skills and general knowledge. Al-Amal School students are given the ITBS every year in the Spring for three main reasons: 1. Assess the school’s performance 2. Provide feedback to teachers  3. Monitor student’s yearly progress. Al-Amal School students have scored higher than the national average in Reading, Language, and Math. 20% of the Middle/High students are in the top 1% in the Nation in at least one subject. 22% of the Middle/High students are in the top 5% in the Nation in Math. More than half of all students are in the top 10% in the nation in at least one subject. For more information about the ITBS test results please see our October 2004 Newsletter   Go to top	The figure below shows the number of students (in percentages) who scored above the national average in Math. The dotted line at the 50 percent level indicates the national average.
Q: How many students are in Al-Amal school and what are their demographics? A: As of the school year 2004-2005 there are about 350 students enrolled at Al-Amal School. The figure on the right shows the student demographics in terms of the languages spoken at home. "Mixed" stands mostly for households with Arabic and English language origin, but other combinations exist as well. The "Other" languages include: • Oromo • Swahili • German • Farsi • Turkish • Spanish • Tygrani   Go to top	Languages Spoken at Home
Q: Where can I get more information? A: This web site is updated regularly with the latest information about the school and school related events. Our Flyer provides an overview of Al-Amal school's mission, environment, curriculum and important facts. The Al-Amal School Newsletter is a good source for more current information. If you have a specific question that you can not find answered here, please feel free to contact us per mail, email, phone or fax (more info see below). Go to top	Flyer:	Newsletter:
Q: How can I contact Al-Amal? A: You can contact us: Per mail at our address: Al-Amal School, 1401 Gardena Ave NE, Fridley, MN 55432 Per email at: info@al-amal.org Per phone at: (763) 571-8886 during our office hours 8AM-4PM (CST) Per fax at: (763) 571-1925   Go to top	Email Al-Amal School: info@al-amal.org
Q: Why should I send my child to Al-Amal? A: There are three main reasons why you might want to send your child(ren) to  Al-Amal School: Islamic Environment: Al-Amal School offers an Islamic environment that is conducive to the academic, social, spiritual and physical growth of your child. Children excel in all aspects of life when they grow up in such a safe and nurturing environment. Educational Success: We believe that because of the environment, the dedication of our teachers and the involvement of our parents, Al-Amal students are more successful than the national average. In fact, our records show that the longer the students stay with Al-Amal the more they improve. For more details see above Islamic Knowledge: Al-Amal School offers daily instructions in Qur'an, Arabic and Islamic Studies embedded within the core curriculum subjects. At the same time, it provides an environment in which the students can practice their religion freely and receive feedback to improve their understanding of Islam. Go to top
Q: Does Al-Amal have space for my child? A: We have a waiting list in Pre-K and the lower elementary grades. For information specific for your situation, please contact the school (see above)   Go to top
Q: What are the admission requirements? A: Following are the admissions criteria: Acceptance and commitment to the mission statement Academic history based on previous school records (if applicable) Successful completion of placement test (1st through 12th grades only) Evidence of a history of positive school behavior Approval based on interview conducted by the Hiring Committee Admissions priority will be given based on the following criteria: Having a parent who is a staff member Having a sibling that is currently enrolled (must not have an outstanding balance) Date of application Having previously attended an Islamic school (if applicable) Each family must submit a non-refundable $50 application fee with their application.   For detailed admission procedure click here.   Go to top	Download Admission Application Form: (pdf file, needs Acrobat Reader)
Q: How much does it cost (tuition rates)? A: The Board has worked with the parents to set the lowest possible tuition rates while still keeping the school running. The cost for field trips and additional personal items (such as uniforms, backpacks, school supplies etc.) is not part of the tuition and is the responsibility of the parents. In an effort to improve the billing and collection process, tuition rates are divided into four independent tiers or levels: 1. Preschool Level (Pre-K) 2. Elementary Level (Grades K-5) 3. Middle/High School Level (Grades 6-10) 4. PSEO Level (Grades 11-12) Sibling Discount: Second and third child discounts are only applied to grades K through 10. No sibling discounts are available for preschool or PSEO. Registration Fee: There will be a charge of $15 per student for registration at the beginning of the year (limit $45 per family). The fee covers materials (including a student planner) and processing. This fee is not subject to financial aid. Maintenance / Security Fee: There will be a monthly fee of $10 per family, per month ($100 per year) to cover the costs associated with maintenance and security at the school. There is no fee for preschool. This fee is not subject to financial aid. Computer Fee: There is a computer fee of $15 per family, per month ($150 per year). There is no computer fee for preschool. This fee is not subject to financial aid. Go to top	Tuition Rates 2006-2007             Tuition   Monthly   Annual                                          5% disc. Pre-K 2-day        $3,090    $309    $2,940 3-day        $4,120    $412    $3,910 Elementary: Grades K-5 1st child    $3,620    $362    $3,440 2nd child   $3,250    $325    $3,090 3rd child    $2,940    $294    $2,790 Middle/High: Grades 6-10 1st child    $3,810    $381     $3,620 2nd child   $3,430    $343     $3,260 3rd child    $3,090    $309     $2,940 PSEO 11-12                $2,270    $227      $2,160
Q: Is financial aid available? A: Once a student is admitted, parents can apply for financial aid. Financial aid is offered based on the demonstrated need and available resources. Currently, Al-Amal School allocates about 5% of its budget to financial aid.   Go to top
Q: What is the parent's role at Al-Amal? A: Researchers and practitioners have long acknowledged a strong link between parent involvement and children's success in school. Al-Amal School encourages parent involvement because it increases student achievement, enhances self-esteem, improves behavior, and betters school attendance. The primary purpose of the Al-Amal School PTSA (Parent-Teacher-Student- Association) is to promote the welfare of he children at school and home by focusing on education, social events, and sports. PTSA is a forum where parents can get involved in and support various school initiatives. PTSA's role is to communicate and solicit support in different areas. The Al-Amal School PTSA members have either initiated or been involved in various activities: after school tutoring, annual school picnic, teacher appreciation week, support in organizing of school fundraising events, quarterly parents potlucks, addressing parents' collective issues with board and administration, etc. Al-Amal PTSA is an independent organization governed by its own by-laws under Minnesota PTA / National PTA charter. We have seven elected officers (all are Al-Amal School parents) responsible for leading e the Al-Amal PTSA charter and planning. Other members are involved in various activities. The annual family membership fee of $40 helps the PTSA in its efforts. If you are interested in learning more about PTSA and its activities, please send an email to ptsa@al-amal.org   Go to top
Q: Does Al-Amal offer transportation? A: Al-Amal School does not offer transportation, but the following options are available: Students residing in Fridley can use the school bus system offered by the City of Fridley without additional cost. Parents from outside of Fridley organize and offer transportation for a fee. Please contact the school office for a list of these parent volunteers.   Go to top
Q: Is it possible to visit the school? A: Al-Amal always receives and welcomes visitors who want to learn about its programs, students, various activities and teaching practices in order to get a first hand impression. Please contact the Principal using the contact information (see above) to schedule a visit.   Go to top
Q: How can a teacher apply for a teaching position? A: Qualified teachers are invited to apply for the positions of elementary homeroom teachers, subject teachers for middle and high school as well as Islamic studies, Arabic and Qur'an. Essential requirements: Bachelors Degree (or higher) in a closely related field Fluency in English Authorized to work in the U.S. Good knowledge of Islam A minimum of 2 years teaching experience in an accredited educational institution or a U.S. teaching certificate. A teaching license may be required depending on the subject/grade level. We offer: Islamic environment for staff members, students and parents On-site daycare facility for staff Health Savings Account (HSA) program sponsored by the school Priority for children of staff members in admission process Please send your cover letter and resume with salary expectations as an email to careers@al-amal.org or per mail to Hiring Committee, Al-Amal School, 1401 Gardena Ave NE, Fridley, MN 55432   Go to top	Download Employment Application Form: (pdf file, needs Acrobat Reader)