Advancing Palestine Education at the 2nd Annual Palestine Educational Conference
The Islamic Schools League of America (ISLA) was honored to support and participate in the 2nd Annual Palestine Educational Conference (PEC 2025), recently held in Dallas, Texas and convened by one of ISLA’s corporate members, Aref Educational Solutions. The conference brought together educators, curriculum developers, school leaders, and thought leaders from across the country committed to understanding and teaching about Palestine through an Islamic lens.
Founded by educator and community leader Amaal Aref, PEC 2025 was designed as both a professional learning space and a moral gathering, one that affirmed the responsibility educators carry to teach truthfully, compassionately, and with integrity. The conference created space not only for skill-building and resources, but also for reflection, solidarity, and collective purpose.
The day opened with a moving Qur’an recitation by Yusuf Hamza, a student at IANT Quranic Academy. This was followed by a keynote reflection from Imam Tom Facchine of Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research with a preview of the trailer for The Salahuddin Generation. These opening moments underscored the importance of faith-rooted courage, moral clarity, and nurturing resilient Muslim identities—especially for young people navigating a complex and often unjust world.
Presenters on stage during the conference (PC: Fatima Hammaad Photography)
Throughout the day, participants engaged in dynamic sessions exploring curriculum development, advocacy, wellness, leadership, and storytelling. Sadeq Alhasan, Consultants for Islamic School Excellence, examined curriculum and civic engagement as tools for empowerment. Dr. Leila Shatara from Islamic Curriculum Initiative spoke on building faith-driven educational communities, while Bahia Amawi of Texas Council on Human Rights addressed integrity, advocacy, and identity in education.
The role of narrative and cultural preservation was powerfully highlighted by Shereen Malherbe of The Noble Narrative, whose session The Women Who Rebuild Palestine emphasized storytelling as a means of sustaining memory, dignity, and hope. Dr. Iman Farajallah of IMAN Network further expanded the conversation by addressing trauma-informed education, healing, and belonging—critical considerations for educators supporting students amid ongoing injustice and collective grief.
ISLA Presentations at the Conference
ISLA was proud to serve as both a conference sponsor and an active contributor to PEC 2025 through a joint presentation centered on faithful leadership in Islamic education.
Rasha El-Haggan leading a workshop on inquiry-based lessons.
Dr. Shaza Khan shared out about ISLA’s Teaching Palestine Toolkit, a place where educators can easily access vetted resources designed to help teach about Palestine from an Islamic lens. The toolkit includes lesson frameworks, multimedia resources, and practical strategies to help educators navigate this critical topic thoughtfully while remaining anchored in Islamic values. Educators can access the toolkit here.
Rasha El-Haggan, board member of ISLA and CEO of Tarbiyah Academy led a workshop entitled, “Teaching Palestine Through Inquiry & Story: Ingredients for Creating Lessons that Stick,” which explored how inquiry-based learning and storytelling deepen understanding, foster empathy, and support long-term retention. Presentation slides are available here: Teaching Palestine Through Inquiry & Story
Additional sessions enriched the day further, including prophetic wellness and mindful leadership with Wadud Hassan of Muraqaba.App; nurturing Muslim identity through imagination with Amin Aaser of Noor Kids; and reviving Arabic literacy and family connection with Rema Nasir of the Iqraa Bookshop Network.
Beyond the sessions, attendees experienced cultural elements, community networking, and intentional spaces that embodied the conference’s aims. The atmosphere fostered collaboration, reflection, and renewed commitment to teaching with both excellence and heart.
Resources Available
For those who were unable to attend—or who wish to revisit the learning—Aref Educational Solutions has made conference recordings, slides, and presenter resources available at: 2025 PEC Resources
Connect with Aref Educational Solutions
To learn more about Aref Educational Solutions and stay updated on future programming, visit Aref Educational Solutions. You can also follow ongoing updates and resources from the Palestine Educational Conference across social media: Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
As the Palestine Educational Conference continues to grow, ISLA is proud to stand alongside educators and partners advancing this essential work. Be on the lookout for more information in 2026 regarding the 3rd Annual Palestine Educational Conference as this gathering continues to inspire faithful leadership, meaningful education, and collective action.
