Middle School

4th grade - 7th grade

Middle School is a time of transition from the foundation of our Lower School and a time of preparation for the move forward to Upper School.

Utilizing virtue in growth spiritually, academically, socially and emotionally offers a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to teaching young adolescents. The Middle School curriculum promotes students’ academic mastery and critical thinking while continuing to develop their creativity and curiosity.

The middle school journey at the Islamic School of Staten Island is one toward independence and self-reliance in anticipation of moving forward to the Upper School.

Our Classics curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of world history, with a unique and essential addition: the integration of Islamic events, figures, and contributions throughout the timeline of global civilization.

While most typical school curricula often overlook or minimize the role of Islam and Muslim contributions in world history, we intentionally highlight and include:

Major Islamic civilizations and empires (e.g., the Umayyads, Abbasids, Ottomans)
Influential Muslim scholars, scientists, and thinkers (e.g., Ibn Sina, Al-Khwarizmi, Al-Ghazali)
Key Islamic events such as the Hijrah, the spread of Islam, and cultural achievements during the Golden Age
The relationship between Islamic and Western civilizations through trade, translation, and shared knowledge

By doing this, we offer students a more complete, balanced, and inclusive view of history—one that recognizes the deep and lasting impact of Islam on the world.

This approach not only strengthens students’ academic foundation but also builds pride in their identity and heritage, fostering a deeper understanding of the global human story.

Skills include critical reasoning, concise and cogent writing, analysis of cause and effect, as well as the moral framework through which to filter and thereby assess the choices made by men and women in the past, and to weigh the consequences of those choices. Mastered competence in both the content and skills utilized by historians will result in culturally literate citizens who are equipped to meet the challenges of an evermore complex world marked by dynamic and perplexing change

Physical Education is an integral part of the educational experience for all students at the Islamic School of Staten Island. Students also learn foundational values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, honesty, and integrity that they can carry with them for a lifetime of enjoyment in recreational and competitive sports.

Sunnah sports are skill sets we will incorporate in our physical education program:

Horseback riding
Archery
Swimming
Wrestling
Running

The Department of Science at ISSI is dedicated to providing students a comprehensive understanding of science and technology, and their general progress, in order to appreciate the beauty of Allah's (SWT) creation to make sound moral decisions and succeed in post secondary education. Students follow the Classics Curriculum through eighth grade taking chemistry, biology, and physics. Advanced courses will be offered as electives for students who wish to further their study of science. Students will use and analyze the scientific process, applying math, writing, laboratory, and presentation skills, as well as participate in discussions of current moral issues.

These activities will help students to become aware of the oneness and greatness of Allah (SWT) and that science and religion are not two separate worlds but in fact coexist in the world around them.

Our Qur'an curriculum consists of 4 major steps:

Qaidah - Arabic Reading: Alphabet - Short ayaat from the Qur'an.
Tajweed - Proficiency in Reading. Being able to read with the correct pronunciations and follow rules that apply to specific letters in different situations.
Completion of reading Juz Amma with correct Tajweed as well as other chapters from the Qur'an.
Memorization of the Qur'an

This is done on a one on one method, where students learn at their own pace and excel at a quicker pace giving them the confidence to keep moving through the different steps.

Sunnah sports are skill sets we will incorporate in our physical education program:

Horseback riding
Archery
Swimming
Wrestling
Running

The Arabic Immersion program is where our students will learn to only communicate in Arabic with their teacher and with one another. They will learn conversational Classical Arabic.

Learning conversational Arabic is highly beneficial for those looking to read and understand the Quran. It provides deeper connection to the language, enabling learners to grasp the and context of the text. This understanding enhances the ability to appreciate the Quran's teachings, fostering a more meaningful spiritual experience. Additionally, conversational Arabic can aid in engaging with the Muslim community and participating in discussions about the Quran and its interpretations.

Personal Development for students will be a daily class split into two categories:

Prophetic Wellness refers to the holistic approach to health and well-being based on the teachings, lifestyle, and guidance of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It is rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah and promotes physical, spiritual, emotional, and social health as interconnected parts of a balanced life. Here’s a breakdown of what it includes:
1. Physical Health
2. Spiritual & Mental Health
3. Balanced Lifestyle
4. Social Wellness
Life Skills
1. Self Discipline and Responsibility
2. Communication and Conflict resolution
3. Social and Emotional Inteligence
4. Civic and environmental Responsibility