Empowering Students for Life: Spotlight on IAWV Elementary School
Nestled in the heart of South Charleston, West Virginia, IAWV Elementary School stands as a vibrant model of faith-centered education in action. Founded in 2020, the school serves pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students with a mission captured in its powerful motto: “Empowering Students for Life.” Under the leadership of Head of School Kiran Faridi, IAWV has quickly become a cornerstone of the local Muslim community—blending academic rigor, character formation, and Islamic values in every aspect of student life.
Integrating Faith, Learning, and Community
At IAWV, Islamic values are not a separate subject—they are seamlessly woven into the rhythm of each school day. Because the school operates within the masjid building, students participate in daily Zuhr prayer in congregation and attend Friday khutbahs alongside community members, fostering an authentic connection between learning and lived faith.
Classroom lessons consistently connect academic concepts to Islamic principles, helping students understand their studies through a moral and spiritual lens. An annual play in Arabic and English brings Quranic themes to life, while community-based projects—like baking for Jummah attendees and sending holiday cards to local nursing homes—instill a love of service, empathy, and teamwork. Through these initiatives, students learn that knowledge and kindness go hand in hand.
Recent Achievements and School Milestones
IAWV’s growing reputation for excellence is reflected in several remarkable recent milestones.
- Academic Excellence: Students won first place in the Regional Social Studies Fair for two consecutive years (2023–24 and 2024–25). This achievement highlights both their intellectual curiosity and their teachers’ dedication.
- Dual Accreditation: In early 2025, the school received dual accreditation from CISNA and Cognia, a significant step affirming IAWV’s commitment to continuous improvement and educational quality.
- Leadership Growth: Head of School Kiran Faridi, who co-founded the school, celebrated a personal academic milestone this year—earning a Master’s in Education Leadership from Harvard University. Her vision continues to inspire the school’s ongoing pursuit of excellence.
Nurturing the Whole Child
At the heart of IAWV’s educational approach lies a child-centered Montessori philosophy enhanced by the Positive Discipline Montessori Program. Rooted in the principles of respect, empathy, and accountability, the program helps children develop strong character and emotional intelligence through natural consequences, reflection, and problem-solving.
Most IAWV staff members are trained through the Positive Discipline Association’s Heartfelt Parenting program, enabling them to guide students with both kindness and firmness—an approach that mirrors the Prophetic model of tarbiyah. As Head of School Kiran Faridi notes, “We want our students to grow not only academically, but as compassionate human beings who embody the Prophetic example of patience, compassion, and wisdom.”
A Partnership Between School and Home
Parents play an essential role in IAWV’s thriving school culture. Their active participation enriches the learning environment and strengthens the sense of community. Families regularly volunteer for events, serve on committees, and share their cultural traditions during the annual Culturefest Day, a celebration of the school’s rich diversity.
A beloved example of parent leadership is the “Ramadan Reflection” after-school program—developed and run by parents—which encourages students to internalize the spiritual lessons of Ramadan through art, journaling, and community service.
One parent reflected, “The environment has had such a meaningful and positive impact on our daughter. She has learned so much about Islam and her identity, and we see how happy she is every day.” Another added, “Spiritually, my children have deepened their connection to their faith through Qur’anic studies and daily prayers. Academically, they’ve gained confidence and curiosity, and socially, they’ve learned to cooperate and communicate with respect.”
Voices from the Students
Perhaps the most compelling testimony comes from the students themselves, who speak warmly about the school’s caring teachers, close-knit community, and engaging activities.
Zainab, a 4th grader, shared:
“My favorite thing about my school is how nice the teachers are. They help us work harder and learn faster. They treat us like we are their children.”
Larine, a 6th grader, added:
“My favorite thing in my school is the community. It is a very small and kind community, and when I’m in school, I feel happy because my teachers make it fun.”
And Ay’jionn, also in 6th grade, said:
“I like Arabic, Quran, and Islamic classes—they help you with your religion. If you are new, you make friends quickly and have a special bond with them.”
Their words beautifully capture the spirit of IAWV—a place where students feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Looking Ahead: Empowering the Next Generation
As IAWV prepares to graduate its first 8th-grade class next year, the school remains steadfast in its mission to prepare students for lifelong success—academically, socially, and spiritually. Guided by the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) example, the IAWV team strives to nurture young Muslims who think critically, act ethically, and serve humanity with humility and purpose.
For Head of School Kiran Faridi and her dedicated team, the journey has only just begun. “Empowering students for life” isn’t just a motto—it’s a lived commitment shaping every lesson, prayer, and act of kindness at IAWV Elementary School.
About IAWV Elementary School
Empowering Students for Life
1 Valley Drive, South Charleston, WV 25303
📧 admin@iawvschool.org
🌐 www.iawvschool.org
📘 Facebook: IAWV School
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Learn More About ISLA Membership
IAWV Elementary School is proud to be part of the Islamic Schools League of America (ISLA)—a growing network of over 120 Islamic school members dedicated to advancing excellence in Islamic education.
To learn more about ISLA membership and how your school can join this nationwide network of collaboration, professional growth, and shared resources, visit
👉 https://theisla.org/membership/.
