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About CISS

Serving Calgary's Muslim Community with Excellence

Calgary Islamic School Society

CISS is the governing society overseeing Islamic School of Calgary operations. We provide strategic leadership, governance, and oversight for our schools, ensuring they deliver excellent Islamic education that prepares students for success in this life and the hereafter.

Governance & Oversight

Strategic direction and accountability

Strategic Planning

Long-term growth and expansion

Community Trust

Transparency and parent partnership

Our Motto

Faith~Knowledge~Ingenuity

This motto encapsulates our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are grounded in Islamic faith, equipped with knowledge, and prepared to innovate and lead in an ever-changing world.

Mission

Our mission is to strive to build and maintain a learning community that develops leaders through faith, knowledge and ingenuity.

Vision

Calgary Islamic School strives to develop an enriched learning community that promotes academic achievement, leadership and Islamic values.

Beliefs

We believe in the oneness of God (Allah), the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him), and the Quran as the final revelation. Islamic principles guide our educational approach, emphasizing moral character, personal development, and lifelong learning. Education is a shared responsibility between the school, parents, and the community, working together to nurture students who embody Islamic values while achieving academic excellence.

What Makes CISS Schools Distinctive

Our unique approach integrates Islamic values with academic excellence, preparing students for success in both worlds

Sunni Islamic Studies

Comprehensive Islamic education grounded in the Qur'an and Sunnah, teaching the tradition and values of Sunni Islam with qualified Islamic studies teachers

Arabic Language Excellence

Strong Arabic language program from Kindergarten through Grade 12, developing proficiency in reading, writing, and understanding Arabic as a living language

Qur'an Memorization (Tahfeeth)

Structured Tahfeeth program promoting Qur'an memorization and understanding, helping students develop a deep connection with the sacred text

Character & Communication

Focus on Islamic character building, respect for others, and effective communication skills that prepare students to be confident, articulate leaders

Active Canadian Citizenship

Empowering Muslim students to become active and responsible participants in building a diverse, respectful, and harmonious Canadian society while maintaining strong Islamic identity

Values

Opportunity
Diversity
Excellence and Competence
Belonging
Integrity
Citizenship/Servant Leadership

Guiding Principles

The core principles that guide our educational approach and decision-making

Learner Centered/Language Centered

Putting students at the heart of education, recognizing diverse learning needs and language development

Innovation to Promote Excellence

Embracing innovative approaches and best practices to achieve the highest standards

Flexible and Responsive

Adapting to changing needs and responding effectively to community and student requirements

Fair and Equitable

Ensuring all students have access to quality education and opportunities for success

Sustainable and Efficient Use of Resources

Managing resources responsibly for long-term sustainability and maximum impact

Engaged and Collaborative Communities

Building strong partnerships with parents, community members, and stakeholders

Accountable and Transparent

Maintaining high standards of accountability and open communication with all stakeholders

Our Priorities

Strategic priorities that drive our commitment to student success and educational excellence

1. ABC Model - Achievement, Behaviour, Celebrating

Achievement

Fostering a high-performance culture with high expectations for all students

Behaviour

Students demonstrate respectful, responsible, and safe behaviors rooted in Islamic values

Celebrating

Recognizing and celebrating excellence, achievement, and growth at all levels

2. Strengthen Early Learning and Develop Literacy and Numeracy Foundation

Building strong foundational skills in literacy and numeracy from Kindergarten through Grade 3, ensuring every student has the tools for lifelong learning success.

3. Continually Improve Student Wellness, Connection and Cultural Identity

Prioritizing mental health, wellness, and cultural connection while building strong Islamic identity and character development in all students.

4. Continually Improve Quality of Programs and Services

Embracing a continuous improvement approach through regular assessment and enhancement of all educational programs and services.

5. Champion Innovation and Continue to Strengthen Career Education and Apprenticeships

Preparing students for future careers through innovation, 21st century skills development, and strong career education pathways.

CISS Responsibilities

As the governing society, CISS ensures accountability, transparency, and excellence across all schools

Governance and Oversight

Providing strategic direction, policy development, and ensuring schools operate according to Islamic principles and educational best practices

Strategic Planning and Growth

Planning future expansion, including unified campus development and exploring online education opportunities for the community

Community Trust and Transparency

Building strong partnerships with parents, maintaining open communication, and upholding the trust placed in us by the Calgary Muslim community

Supporting Existing Campuses

Ensuring Akram Jomaa Islamic School and Omar Ibn Al-Khattab School have the resources, support, and leadership needed for excellence

Governance Documents

Access official CISS governance documents and bylaws

CISS Bylaws

Amended November 2025

Official bylaws governing the conduct and operations of Calgary Islamic School Society, including membership, board structure, and governance procedures.

Download Bylaws (PDF)

Special Resolutions

October 27, 2025

Special resolutions of members regarding bylaw and objectives amendments, approved by the membership on October 27, 2025.

Coming Soon

Commitment to Parents and Community

CISS believes that education is a shared responsibility. We are committed to transparent governance, regular communication, and genuine partnership with parents. Your trust drives our commitment to accountability and excellence.

We value your input and welcome your engagement. Together, we build a learning community that produces leaders through faith, knowledge, and ingenuity.

Understanding Our Governance Structure

Learn about the roles and responsibilities of CISS, MCFC/MCC, parents, school parents councils, and school principals in our collaborative educational community.

View Governance & Roles