Education
Dar Al-Taqwa Islamic Center in Ellicott City, Maryland, offers a diverse range of educational programs tailored to serve the Muslim community of Howard County. These programs are designed to nurture spiritual growth, Quranic literacy, and Islamic understanding across all age groups.
Core Educational Programs
- AQSA Full-Time Hifz Program: A structured Quran memorization program for students aged 6 and above, running weekdays from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. The program is led by expert Quran teachers and focuses on developing strong memorization skills in a supportive environment.
- AQSA Evening Quran Classes: Evening sessions aimed at enhancing Quran reading and recitation skills, suitable for various age groups and proficiency levels.
- Saturday and Sunday Schools: Weekend programs that provide children with foundational Islamic education, including Quranic studies, Islamic history, and moral teachings, fostering a sense of community and faith.
- Homeschool Group: Supportive resources and community for families engaged in homeschooling, offering Islamic educational materials and group activities.
- Youth Educational Programs: Initiatives focused on engaging young Muslims through interactive learning, discussions, and activities that address contemporary issues from an Islamic perspective.
- Summer Camp: An annual program combining Islamic education with recreational activities, aiming to instill Islamic values while ensuring a fun and enriching experience for children during the summer break.
- Jumuah and Khaterahs: Regular Friday sermons and short talks that provide spiritual insights and guidance on various aspects of Islamic life.
The AQSA Full-Time Hifz Program at Dar Al-Taqwa Islamic Center in Ellicott City, Maryland, is a structured Quran memorization initiative designed for students aged 6 and above. Conducted by expert Quran teachers, the program operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM in the Musalla. The curriculum emphasizes not only memorization but also proper recitation and comprehension of the Quran. The monthly tuition fee is $600. For more details or to apply, interested individuals can visit the AQSA Quran Hifz Application page.
The AQSA Evening Quran Classes at Dar Al-Taqwa Islamic Center in Ellicott City, Maryland, offer a structured after-school program designed to enhance Quranic literacy and spiritual growth among children. Tailored for students aged 6 and above, the program provides flexible scheduling options to accommodate various family needs.
Program Highlights
- Flexible Scheduling: Families can choose between two attendance options:
- 4 days per week: Monday through Thursday
- 2 days per week: Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday
This flexibility allows parents to select a schedule that best fits their child’s routine.
- Curriculum Focus: The classes emphasize accurate Quran recitation (tajweed), memorization, and understanding, fostering a strong connection to the Quran.
- Expert Instruction: Led by qualified Quran teachers, the program ensures personalized attention to support each student’s learning journey.
Tuition Information
- 4 days/week: $150 per month
- 2 days/week: $90 per month
The program runs from November 4, 2024, to June 30, 2025. Enrollment is currently open, and seats are limited.
The Saturday School at Dar Al-Taqwa Islamic Center is thoughtfully designed for non-Arabic speaking children aged 6 to 14. This weekend program provides a comprehensive introduction to Islamic education, with Quran instruction tailored to each student’s level—ranging from Norani Qaida for beginners to the memorization of short Surahs for more advanced learners. In addition to Quranic studies, students engage in lessons on Islam and the Seerah (life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), helping them develop both knowledge and love of their faith.
Classes are held every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, running from September through May or June. The day begins with a morning assembly where students are encouraged to recite a short Surah and share their reflections. This is followed by Quran and Islamic Studies sessions. The school day also includes Dhur prayer in congregation and age-appropriate halaqas to foster discussion and engagement.
The program aims to provide a safe, nurturing environment where children can build lifelong friendships and a strong Islamic identity. It also creates opportunities for parents to connect and organize community meetups.
Tuition Fees:
- $65/month for the first child
- $55/month for the second child
- $45/month for each additional child
- One-time registration & book fee: $65 per child
Books are distributed on the first day of class.
Say: If you should love Allah, then follow me. Allah will love you and forgive you your sins, for Allah is forgiving and merciful. Surah Al Imran 3:31
Enrollment for all programs for the year 2025-2026 is now open. Please click on Enrollment Now to begin the process. You can request enrollment of upto five children in one request.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 13,2025 | First Day of School |
| November 19,2025 | Long Weekend Break (No School) |
| December 27,2025 | Winter Break (No School) |
| March 21, 2026 | Eid ul-Fitr Break (No School) |
| April 4, 2026 | Spring Break (No School) |
| June 6, 2026 | Final Exam |
| June 6, 2026 | Last Day of School(subject to change,but will not go beyond june 13,2026) |
Sunday School at Dar Al-Taqwa offers a flexible and focused Islamic learning experience through two distinct sessions each Sunday. The first session, held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, is primarily focused on Quranic education with instruction delivered in Arabic, making it ideal for students aiming to strengthen their recitation and comprehension of the Quran. The second session, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, emphasizes Islamic Studies and is taught in English, helping students build a solid foundation in Islamic beliefs, values, and history.
Students have the option to enroll in either one of the sessions or both, depending on their learning goals. The tuition fee is $45 per session, offering a cost-effective way for families to customize their child’s Islamic education.
Say: If you should love Allah, then follow me. Allah will love you and forgive you your sins, for Allah is forgiving and merciful. Surah Al Imran 3:31
Enrollment for all programs for the year 2025-2026 is now open. Please click on Enrollment Now to begin the process. You can request enrollment of upto five children in one request.
The Dar Al-Taqwa Youth Educational Program is designed to engage and empower teens through a balanced blend of Islamic learning, mentorship, and community involvement. Held in a welcoming and interactive environment, the program offers Quran study, Seerah discussions, youth-led halaqas, and practical life lessons rooted in Islamic values. It fosters spiritual growth, builds leadership skills, and encourages meaningful friendships—helping young Muslims connect with their faith and confidently navigate modern challenges.
Have questions or want to learn more about the program? Email us at youth@taqwa.net
AQSA Summer Camp at Dar Al-Taqwa offers a fun, faith-based environment where children enjoy their summer while staying connected to Islamic values. Designed for kids aged 6 and up, the camp blends engaging Quran and Islamic lessons with exciting recreational activities, arts and crafts, games, and outdoor fun. Held in a safe and nurturing setting, the program encourages spiritual growth, teamwork, and lasting friendships. With experienced staff and age-appropriate programming, AQSA Summer Camp is the perfect place for children to learn, play, and grow during their summer break.
Have questions or want to learn more about the program? Email us at summercamp@taqwa.net
Al Ansar Homeschool Co-op, a part of the Homeschool Group at Dar Al-Taqwa Islamic Center, offers a welcoming and collaborative learning environment for homeschooling families in Howard County, MD. As one of several educational initiatives—including Summer Camp, Saturday and Sunday Schools, and youth programs—the co-op fosters community and enriches the homeschooling experience. Families interested in participating can learn more or contact the group via homeschool@taqwa.net.