Faith, Learning & Community in Schenectady
“The World in Our Hands and Religion in Our Heart.”
For nearly three decades, Annur Islamic School in Schenectady, New York, has worked to empower young Muslims with strong faith, academic excellence, confident character, and a commitment to serving others.
Led by Principal Katelyn Loughman, Annur serves approximately 150 students from PreK through 12th grade. As an Islamic Schools League of America (ISLA) school member, Annur is also part of a national network of Islamic schools learning from one another and working together to strengthen Islamic education.
Living Islamic Values Every Day
At Annur Islamic School, Islamic values aren’t just taught—they’re lived.
Students begin each morning with adhkar, gather for daily prayers, and practice kindness, respect, and responsibility throughout the day. Teachers model good manners, encourage positive choices, and help students connect classroom lessons to the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah.
From saying salaam to serving others, students learn that Islam is not a subject—it’s a way of life.
That approach extends into student wellbeing and character development. Daily Islamic character lessons use reminders, stories, and discussions to teach kindness, honesty, patience, and respect. Qur’an and Arabic enrichment provides additional support for memorization, tajweed, and understanding the meaning behind the words of Allah.
A positive behavior program celebrates good manners, effort, and teamwork, while daily salaam greetings, cleanup routines, and respectful communication help create a safe and welcoming school culture.
Students can also participate in STEM AfterSchool Adventures, building robots, conducting mini science experiments, and exploring technology through hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity.
A Year of Growth and Progress
Annur describes this year as one of “growth and progress.”
The school completed major facility upgrades, expanded academic tools including IXL and in-school tutoring, and strengthened school-family communication through GradeLink and FACTS. Its Islamic Studies curriculum has also continued to develop, with expanded Qur’an memorization support across grade levels.
Families play an essential role in that progress. Through PTO involvement, volunteer opportunities, WhatsApp communication groups, and regular parent-school meetings, parents help shape school culture and strengthen the support system surrounding students.
Growing from a Small School to PreK–12
Annur’s story began in 1991 with PreK and Kindergarten classes inside the Islamic Center of the Capital District. In 1994, the school moved into its permanent home at 2195 Central Avenue in Schenectady, formerly a public elementary school.
New grades were added year by year. A major expansion in 2010 brought six additional classrooms, and in 2016, Annur proudly graduated its first high school seniors.
Today, Annur is a thriving PreK–12 institution with a new partnership through the Hudson Valley Community College College in the High School program, providing opportunities for students to earn college credits before graduation.
Through every stage of growth, the school says its mission has remained the same: empowering young Muslims with strong faith, academic excellence, and a commitment to serving others.
Growing Together Through ISLA Membership
Why does Annur choose to be an ISLA school member?
“Annur Islamic School is part of ISLA because we believe in growing together.”
Through ISLA, the school connects with Islamic schools across the country and gains access to professional development, leadership training, resources, and opportunities to collaborate with fellow educators.
“Through ISLA, our teachers learn, our school improves, and our students benefit.”
ISLA membership supports Islamic schools like Annur as they strengthen their programs, develop educators and leaders, learn from best practices, and build connections across the field of Islamic education.
Is your school ready to grow together with other Islamic schools? Learn more about ISLA School Membership and join a national network committed to strengthening Islamic education.
Voices from the Annur Community
For student Rula Saidam, what stands out most is the sense of belonging:
“What I love most about Annur is how everyone feels like family. Our teachers really care about us, and we get to learn about our deen every day. I feel safe, supported, and proud to be part of this school.”
Parent Dr. Ismail Alzabi sees that impact in both faith and learning:
“Annur Islamic School has helped my child grow in every way. Their confidence has increased, their manners have improved, and they’ve developed a stronger connection to their faith. The teachers truly care, and it shows in my child’s academic progress and character.”
Looking Ahead
Annur Islamic School says it “dreams boldly.”
Future goals include expanding academic excellence, deepening Qur’an and Islamic Studies pathways, empowering teachers, strengthening community partnerships, and creating modern spaces that inspire creativity and connection. The school is also looking ahead to a new campus in the coming years that can support expanding programs and welcome more families.
“The future of Annur Islamic School is bright, full of promise, and guided by purpose. We’re just getting started.”
Connect with Annur Islamic School
Annur Islamic School
2195 Central Avenue
Schenectady, NY
PreK–12 | Approximately 150 students
Principal: Katelyn Loughman
Website: annurislamicschool.org
Families and community members can connect with Annur through its website, email, Facebook, phone calls, GradeLink, ClassDojo, and recorded voice messages.
