Help facilitate Buffalo's first Islamic Montessori School!

Bismillah ar-Rahman, ar-Raheem,

(In the name of Allāh, the Most Gracious, Most Merciful)

My name is Montaha Rizeq. After many years of teaching and working with children, I have embarked on a fulfilling journey of studying the Montessori method of Early Childhood Education. I have immersed myself in the study of children and have been closely mentored by women who have dedicated their lives to the Montessori method for many years - even decades! I am certified to guide children from the ages of birth to 6. I have earned my diploma from the North American Montessori Center and the Buffalo Montessori Teacher Education Program which is affiliated with the esteemed American Montessori Society - AMS.

I am very delighted and excited to announce that with the Aid of Allah and all of you - Buffalo, NY will have its first ever Arabic immersion Islamic Montessori preschool for children ages 2-6 starting September of 2024!

The Montessori method transforms education into an exciting adventure where children are the explorers of their own world. In a Montessori classroom, child-sized furniture and hands-on didactic materials make learning interactive and fun, encouraging children to follow their natural curiosity. They choose activities based on their interests, fostering a love for discovery while learning at their own pace. Mixed-age groups create a community where older children mentor the younger ones, enhancing social skills and cooperation.

The environment is meticulously prepared to inspire engagement and responsibility, helping children develop independence and confidence. Montessori environments are unique because they intend to mimic a home, and studies have shown that children learn better in a home setting. This method respects each child’s uniqueness, offering personalized guidance and nurturing their overall development—academically, emotionally, and socially. Montessori turns learning into a joyful, creative journey, cultivating lifelong learners who are self-assured and independent thinkers.

Most importantly, this will be a school thats foundations are Islamic teachings and immersion of the Arabic language. Islamic components such as learning about the Oneness of Allah, good conduct, manners, empathy, and cooperation will play a vital role in our day to day interactions. Arabic immersion will include daily adhkaar, dua, and Quranic recitation alongside actual Montessori lessons done in the Arabic language.

**I am reaching out to all of you to help make Yaseera Montessori a possibility. With your help, we can bring the first ever Islamic Montessori school to our community. The money raised will be used for home costs as well as materials and furniture for the environment.**

I chose the name 'Yaseera Montessori' because 'yaseera' (يسيرة) in Arabic means 'to make easy' and 'to facilitate'. This is what I aspire to bring to all of you - ease in nurturing and educating our children. My hope is to give our children the opportunity to learn in a unique setting that meets their needs and fulfills their abilities academically, spiritually, and emotionally.