Frequently Asked Questions

Academic Program & Curriculum

What will my child learn in the Sunday School?

Your child will receive comprehensive Islamic education covering:

  • Qur’an Studies: Reading, recitation with proper tajweed, memorization of selected surahs, and understanding the meaning and context of verses
  • Islamic Beliefs (Aqeedah): The six pillars of faith, understanding Allah’s names and attributes, and building a strong foundation in Islamic theology
  • Islamic Ethics & Character (Akhlaq): Developing good manners, respect for parents and elders, honesty, kindness, and other Islamic virtues
  • Islamic History: Stories of the Prophets, the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Sahabah, and significant events in Islamic history
  • Practical Life Lessons: How to apply Islamic teachings in daily life, making wudu, performing salah, Islamic etiquette, and navigating life as a young Muslim in America
  • Quranic Arabic: Basic Arabic reading and writing skills to help students connect directly with the Quran

Our curriculum is carefully designed to be fully aligned with authentic Islamic teachings:

  • All content is derived from the Quran and authentic Hadith sources
  • We follow the methodology of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah
  • Lessons emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application based on the Prophet’s (PBUH) example
  • We use age-appropriate teaching methods while maintaining the authenticity of Islamic teachings
  • Regular review by Islamic scholars ensures our materials remain true to Islamic principles
  • Focus on building strong Islamic identity while being productive members of American society

Yes, our educators bring both passion and expertise to the classroom:

  • All teachers are dedicated volunteers who have undergone background checks
  • Teachers have experience in Islamic education and/or formal Islamic studies background
  • Regular training sessions and workshops keep our teachers updated on best teaching practices
  • Many teachers have been with MACA for years, providing consistency and deep community connections
  • Teachers are selected for their ability to connect with children and make learning engaging
  • Ongoing mentorship and support from senior educators ensure quality instruction

Registration & Enrollment

What is the registration process and what documents are needed?

Registration at MACA Sunday School is straightforward:

  • Step 1: Complete the online registration form on our website or obtain a paper form from the school office
  • Step 2: Submit required documents:
    • Child’s birth certificate or proof of age
    • Emergency contact information
    • Medical information form (allergies, medications, special needs)
    • Photo consent form (optional)
    • Previous Islamic education records (if applicable)
  • Step 3: Pay registration fee and first month’s tuition
  • Step 4: Receive confirmation email with class assignment and school calendar
  • Note: Registration typically opens in August for the fall semester and January for new students

Fees & Financial Information

What are the tuition fees and payment methods?

MACA is committed to making Islamic education affordable for all families:

  • Tuition: Highly affordable rates designed to be accessible to all community members
  • Payment Options:
    • Monthly payments
    • Semester payments
    • Annual payment
  • Accepted Payment Methods:
    • Online payment through our secure portal (we are setting up a parent portal for school management for seamless payment and tracking)
    • Check (made payable to MACA Weekend School)
    • Cash (with receipt)
    • Zelle or other electronic transfers to our bank account (inquire for details)
  • Financial Assistance: Available for families facing financial hardship (inquire confidentially with administration)
  • Family Discounts: Available for families with multiple children enrolled

We strive to minimize additional costs for families:

  • Books: Most learning materials are included in tuition; some advanced level books may require purchase (approximately $20-40 per year)
  • Supplies: Basic supplies list provided before school starts (notebooks, pencils, folders – typically under $20)
  • Uniforms: No uniform required; we encourage modest Islamic dress code
  • Special Events: Optional participation in field trips or special programs may have minimal fees
  • Quran: Students are encouraged to bring their own Quran, though we have copies available for use during class
  • No hidden fees: All costs are communicated upfront during registration

Other General Information

Whom can I contact if I have concerns or questions about my child's learning?

We have multiple points of contact to address your concerns:

  • First Contact: Your child’s teacher (contact information provided at orientation)
  • Academic Concerns: Education Coordinator
  • Administrative Issues: School Administrator
  • General Inquiries: Chat option available on our website
  • Urgent Matters: Principal’s direct line for immediate concerns or use website chat
  • Email Response Time: Within 24-48 hours during school days
  • Website Contact Form: Available at school.macanj.org/contact-us
  • In-Person: School office is open 30 minutes before and after Sunday classes

Regular attendance is crucial for your child’s Islamic education success:

  • Minimum Attendance: 80% attendance required for promotion to next level
  • Class Schedule: Sundays from specifictime during the school year (September-June)
  • Excused Absences: Illness, family emergency, or religious obligations
  • Notification: Please inform the teacher or office of planned absences in advance
  • Make-up Work: Students responsible for catching up on missed lessons
  • Excessive Absences: May result in meeting with parents to discuss solutions
  • Perfect Attendance: Recognized with special awards at year-end ceremony

We use positive discipline approaches rooted in Islamic teachings:

  • Classroom Management:
    • Clear expectations set from day one
    • Positive reinforcement for good behavior
    • Islamic character building integrated into discipline
  • Progressive Discipline Steps:
    • Verbal reminder and redirection
    • One-on-one discussion with student
    • Time-out or reflection period
    • Parent notification and involvement
    • Meeting with administration if needed
  • Serious Violations: Immediate parent contact for bullying, disrespect, or safety concerns
  • Focus on Growth: Emphasis on learning from mistakes and character development
  • No Physical Punishment: We never use physical discipline
  • Restorative Approach: Students encouraged to make amends and learn Islamic conflict resolution

Your child’s safety is our top priority:

  • Secure Facility:
    • Controlled entry points with sign-in/sign-out procedures
    • Visitor badges required for all non-staff adults
    • Security cameras in common areas
    • Regular safety drills (fire, lockdown)
  • Staff Safety Measures:
    • All teachers and volunteers undergo background checks
    • Child protection training for all staff
    • Two-adult rule in classrooms when possible
    • Clear windows in classroom doors
  • Health & Safety:
    • First aid trained staff on-site
    • Allergy and medical information kept on file
    • Emergency contact information readily accessible
    • Clear emergency evacuation procedures
  • Pick-up/Drop-off Procedures:
    • Designated areas for student drop-off and pick-up
    • Only authorized individuals may pick up children
    • ID verification for anyone not recognized by staff
  • Communication:
    • Immediate notification of parents in case of any incidents
    • Emergency text alert system for urgent communications

We encourage and welcome parent involvement:

  • Volunteer as a teacher assistant or substitute
  • Help with special events and field trips
  • Join the Parent-Teacher Organization
  • Share your professional skills for career day
  • Assist with fundraising activities
  • Participate in our community events

We strive to accommodate all students:

  • Please discuss your child’s needs during registration
  • We work with parents to develop appropriate accommodations
  • Modified curriculum available when needed
  • Peer support and buddy systems in place
  • Additional one-on-one support when possible

Currently, parents are responsible for transportation. However:

  • We can help connect families for carpooling
  • Special arrangements may be possible for families with transportation challenges
  • Please contact the office to discuss your needs

In the event of severe weather, parents will be getting calls from your child’s class teacher and teacher assistant.

For any questions not addressed here, please contact us via chat, meet us personally during school hours, or visit school.macanj.org/contact-us