Salaams,
I post this here because I know that, culturally speaking, many muslims in this country are intensely focused on educational acheivement. The wealthy among us may be trying to up their children’s chances of entering the best schools by attending private academies.

Link to story, click here

In the March/April 2007 issue of Islamic Horizons, there’s an in interesting series of articles on the topic of accreditation of Islamic schools. Among them is an article by Necva Ozgur, talking about the need for a Muslim accreditation agency.

“Although accreditation can be considered a measure of success and excellence, excellence can only be achieved if every component of the school is included. However, no accreditation entity is geared specifically towards Islamic schools. This, they must seek accreditation from a local accrediting agency, which may be a good option of starters but lacks the Islamic component. Another option would be to seek accreditation from a Muslim accrediting agency that could initiate dual accreditation with a local independent school accrediting agency. This option has the benefit of providing two accreditations and recognition. A third option might be offered when a Muslim accrediting agency can provide accreditation and recognition to the Islamic school on its own.”

Recently, friends of mine were considering an Islamic school for their child, and my first question was, “Is the school accredited?” Fortunately, it is, and I heaved a sigh of relief on hearing this, but there’s still something that nags me constantly.