Hidaya Academy and the WHOLE CHILD Educational PHILOSOPHY

Hidaya Academy believes that the spiritual component of education includes being God-conscious, following the legacy of the Prophet (S) in word and deed, and extending religiosity beyond acts of worship to good character and manners. Strong citizenship is the exemplification of these manners. Allah swt tells us in the Qur’an that true honor and success is achieved by those who are conscious and mindful of Him. 

               O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into 

               nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Verily, the most honorable 

               of you with Allah is that (believer) who has At-Taqwa [i.e. one of the Muttaqun

                       (pious – see V. 2:2). Verily, Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware. (Qur’an 49:13)

              O believers! Patiently endure, persevere, stand on guard, and be mindful of Allah,

                                                 so you may be successful. (Qur’an 3:200)

The Prophet (S), our beloved guide, used to say: 

              “The most beloved amongst you is the one who has the best characters and

                                          manners.” (Sahih Bukhari, Vol #5, Hadith #3759)

Hidaya believes that part of a good education is providing students with the tools to increase awareness of themselves and their own emotions, learn how to control those emotions in a safe environment, and show empathy and responsibility in relationships with other students, teachers and creatures of Allah.   These values will be woven into the routine of the school day, as well as be a part of the behavioral intervention policies that are established in the school.  

One of the natural correlates of empathy is service. Hidaya Academy values service as means by which to fulfill the rights of others (people, animals, the Earth, etc.) over us. Compassion and empathy will be core values established at Hidaya and the Academy will seek out service opportunities within our local community in which its students can apply this critical skill.  

 At Hidaya, we believe that a quality education includes high academic standards combined by differential support for the diverse needs of our students. We believe that being engaged, thinking critically and creatively and having the opportunity to apply our knowledge in real-life situations whenever possible is the best way to learn.   

Hidaya promotes the understanding that our bodies are an amanah, a trust from Allah, and the natural corollary, that taking care of them is an important part of our faith. It endorses healthy mindsets, healthy eating, movement, and exercise. These beliefs and values shape what recommendations we have for parents about snacks and meals, which courses will be offered at Hidaya, how the classes are structured throughout the day.