Inspires Faith, Character, and Achievement
We’re honored to highlight one of our valued ISLA member schools, the Islamic Academy of Kendallville (IAK), a vibrant K–6 learning community in Kendallville, Indiana, dedicated to nurturing faith, excellence, and character.
School Vision
To foster a community of well-rounded and inspired high achievers.
Located at 200 W. Ohio Street, Kendallville, IN 46755, IAK currently serves 69 students in Kindergarten through 6th Grade under the leadership of Principal Br. Abdulmalek Jawba and Assistant Principal Abdulrahman Yahya. Established in 2021, IAK continues to grow as a beacon of faith-based learning and community connection.
Incorporating Islamic Values into Daily Life
At IAK, Islamic values are woven into every aspect of students’ day. Mornings begin with du‘aa, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection. Students embody adab (manners), honesty, and compassion through daily interactions, classroom expectations, and service projects. Teachers integrate academic content with Islamic principles, reminding students that seeking knowledge is an act of worship.
“Our mornings begin with du‘aa, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection.”
Achievements and Milestones
Alhamdulillah, within just three years of establishment, IAK has achieved Cognia Accreditation and expanded enrollment significantly. Students continue to show exceptional growth both academically and spiritually. Vice Principal Abdulrahman Yahya is spearheading the school’s STEM Program, designed to inspire creativity and innovation through an Islamic worldview.
Supporting Student Well-Being and Character Development
Each Friday, IAK hosts Character Education Fridays, focusing on empathy, responsibility, and respect through Qur’anic stories, classroom activities, and prayer. Mindfulness and dhikr are also integrated throughout the week, helping students center their hearts around gratitude and remembrance of Allah.
“Mindfulness through dhikr helps our students center their hearts around gratitude and remembrance of Allah.”
Family and Community Involvement
Parents are seen as partners in education at IAK. Through monthly workshops, open houses, and volunteer opportunities, families play an active role in shaping the student experience. Many parents serve on event committees, bringing their cultural strengths to enrich school life. Together, the IAK community feels like one extended family.
“Our parents are our partners… Together, we are building a community that feels like one extended family.”
Looking Ahead
IAK aspires to become a model K–6 Islamic learning community that produces confident, knowledgeable, and spiritually grounded students. Plans are underway to expand into a middle school, strengthen Arabic and Qur’an programs, and build faith-centered pathways in technology and leadership development. Long-term, IAK hopes to establish a full K–12 school serving the growing needs of its community.
Voices from the Community
Students say:
“IAK is a nice school that helps me learn about Islam and have trusted friends.”
– Aaesha Omar, 6th Grade“I love my IAK because it gives us fun moments! We go on exciting field trips and learn new things every day.”
– Bayan Yaffai, 5th Grade“IAK is a fun place to learn. Meeting and learning with other Muslim students is the best part. I’m proud of IAK because it’s a small school in a small town.”
– Amer Taher, 5th Grade
Parents share:
“IAK has transformed my child’s confidence and love for Islam. The teachers nurture their hearts and minds, and my child wakes up excited to go to school every morning.”
– Parent of a 6th grader
Mission and Vision
Mission Statement:
The Islamic Academy of Kendallville’s mission is to provide intellectual and social enrichment that inspires young leaders to become faithful and thoughtful citizens — while nurturing a strong, positive American Muslim identity.
Vision Statement: IQRA
IAK’s vision is embodied in IQRA, representing the values that guide the school community:
I – Iman (Faith): Our faith is our guide.
Q – Qalam (Writing Tool): Literacy is our tool.
R – Respect: We value respect for ourselves, others, our faith, and our world.
A – Achievement: We strive to make our life better today for tomorrow.
Learn More & Connect:
Explore more about the Islamic Academy of Kendallville (IAK):
🌐School Website | 📘Facebook | 📸 Instagram: @islamicacademyofkendallville | ▶️ YouTube Channel
To learn more about how your school can join our growing network of Islamic schools nationwide, visit ISLA Membership — encourage your school to become a member today!
