Our High School Curriculum

The AQA High School Program provides a structured and cohesive educational experience in core academic subjects—English, mathematics, science, and social studies—while integrating Arabic, Qur’an, and Islamic Studies. Courses are aligned with Virginia State Standards to ensure academic rigor and college readiness. The program includes small class sizes, direct instruction from qualified teachers, and use of both physical learning materials and online resources. Students receive consistent teacher interaction for lessons, assignments, and academic support.

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Our High School Curriculum

The High School program at Al-Qalam Academy offers students two academic pathways: the AQA High School Program or Connections Academy (VAVA). Both options are designed to meet Virginia State Standards while incorporating Al-Qalam’s emphasis on Islamic values and studies.

Connections Academy (VAVA)
Students enrolled in VAVA complete their core coursework through the Connections Academy virtual platform, which meets state standards for high school education. In addition, VAVA students participate in selected in-person classes and activities at Al-Qalam Academy, including Arabic, Qur’an, Islamic Studies, and limited access to electives such as art, computer classes, and physical education. This arrangement allows students to fulfill academic requirements while maintaining engagement with the school community.

Islamic Studies
The Islamic Studies program in high school is designed to strengthen faith, character, and Islamic identity. The curriculum includes Aqeedah (beliefs), Ibadah (acts of worship), Seerah (Prophetic biography), Adab (manners), Duas, Hadiths, and daily Islamic practices. Lessons are grade-appropriate and focus on practical application in a modern context. Students participate in discussions, written assignments, projects, and role-play activities to reinforce learning and promote critical thinking about Islamic principles.

Arabic
Arabic instruction at the high school level focuses on both language proficiency and religious comprehension. Students develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Modern Standard Arabic, along with grammar, syntax, and vocabulary to support Qur’anic understanding. Instruction methods include reading comprehension exercises, structured conversations, translation work, and writing assignments. The curriculum is designed to advance students from intermediate to higher levels of fluency and comprehension.

Through these academic pathways and subject-specific programs, the Al-Qalam Academy High School curriculum ensures that students meet graduation requirements, are prepared for college or other post-secondary options, and maintain a strong connection to their Islamic identity.

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Extracurricular & After School Activities

High school students at Al-Qalam Academy have access to a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs designed to extend learning beyond the classroom and provide opportunities for skill development. Offerings include competitions in both academic and creative areas, such as spelling bees in Arabic and English, art competitions, math competitions, geography competitions, science fairs, Qur’an competitions, debate competitions, speech and public speaking competitions, cooking competitions, henna competitions, and essay writing competitions in both Arabic and English. These activities give students structured opportunities to apply their knowledge, practice public performance skills, and work collaboratively.

After-School Programs

1. Intervention Program
   The High School Intervention Program provides targeted academic support for students who are not meeting grade-level expectations or who fall behind at any point in the school year. Instruction is tailored to address specific areas of need in core subjects, with the goal of helping students meet required academic standards. Support is delivered through small group sessions or one-on-one assistance after school, allowing for more focused attention on individual learning gaps.
2. After-School Clubs
   High school after-school clubs at AQA include board games, reading, writing, math, and public speaking. These clubs give students the opportunity to strengthen subject-specific skills, practice critical thinking, and engage in activities that encourage collaboration. Club meetings are structured and supervised, and students are able to participate in one or more clubs based on their interests and schedules.

Together, these extracurricular and after-school programs provide high school students with additional avenues to meet academic goals, practice skills in competitive and non-competitive settings, and participate in structured activities outside regular classroom hours.

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School Supply List