As a community, we hold a profound responsibility to ensure that our children receive the best possible education, both academically and spiritually. Our teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the minds and hearts of the next generation. So, why is it that the teachers of the majority of Arabic and Quran weekend schools do not receive ANY training or professional development?
No parent would want the teacher of their children to be unqualified. Therefore, it is crucial that we take the development of our teachers seriously and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.
Why We Need to Improve Our Muslim Teachers
- Role Models for Our Youth: Teachers are not just baby sitters or Google bots for spitting information. They are both educators AND role models. They are expected to embody the values and principles of Islam, and their behavior and knowledge significantly influence their students – our children. By improving our teachers, we ensure that our children have positive role models to look up to.
- Quality Education: In a master’s study published by Al-Azhar University, it was found that over 72% of Quran teachers at mosques did not know how to properly teach the Quran; and a significant majority of them did not properly memorize the verses themselves! A well-trained teacher can deliver lessons more effectively, making learning engaging and meaningful. This leads to better understanding among students, and less stress among teachers.
- Spiritual Growth: Teachers who are well-versed in Islam can provide a deeper understanding of the faith, helping students to grow spiritually and develop a stronger connection with Allah.
- Community Strength: Educated and well-trained teachers contribute to the overall strength and unity of the community. They can address contemporary issues with wisdom and guide the youth in navigating the challenges of modern life.
Islamic Perspective on Education
The importance of education and the role of teachers is emphasized in both the Quran and Hadith. Allah says in the Quran:
“Are those who know equal to those who do not know?”
(Quran 39:9)
This verse highlights the value of knowledge and the distinction between those who are educated and those who are not.
Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
Many other Hadeeths put teachers and scholars in highest ranks of reward, and they all point to one thing: Caring and respecting our teachers is a duty upon the entire community.
Join Our Teacher Training Workshop
To support our teachers in their noble mission, we are offering a comprehensive Teacher Training Workshop end of August. Most weekend Islamic schools do not offer any training before the semester begins. This workshop is designed to equip Muslim educators with modern teaching techniques, enhance their understanding of Islamic principles in Education, and provide them with the resources they need to excel.
Register Today!
Invest in the future of our community by registering your teachers for our upcoming workshop. For more information and to register, please contact us at admissions [(at]) siraj [(dot]) institute or visit our teacher workshop page here.
Together, we can empower our teachers and ensure a brighter future for our children.