Burhan Academy

We aim to provide a comprehensive education that integrates an Islamic viewpoint into the academic curriculum.

Introduction

We are excited to announce the establishment of Burhan Academy, a new Islamic school in our community. Building on the hard work and dedication of existing Islamic schools, we are honored to contribute to the ongoing advancement of Islamic education. Our goal is to enhance the academic excellence and spiritual growth of our students, ensuring they become well-rounded individuals and future leaders. By continuing to innovate and improve, we strive to create a nurturing environment where every student can thrive academically and personally, upholding the values and principles of our faith.

Faculty and Staff

The only way for us to achieve the best results in implementing our vision is to curate a team with the highest and most qualified educators. And to maintain academic excellence, we have decided to establish an educational board with academic and educational veterans. 

  • Principal: Dr. Ashraf Arafat. Born in Gaza, Palestine, Dr. Arafat, earned his Masters and Doctorate degrees in the U.S. He has a Ph.D in educational leadership and certification from Harvard Graduate School of Education. He has dedicated his career to advancing the educational experiences of diverse learners, guided by the Islamic principle that seeking knowledge is a sacred duty. He also has several years of experience as an Islamic School Principal in the U.S.

  • School Administrator: Kiran Ansari. Ms. Ansari has an MBA and 25 years of experience working with various educational and Islamic organizations in the United States. She has been raising her family of three children in Elgin for the last 13 years and is well-connected to the local community. Her extensive and relevant experience with content creation, marketing, social media, writing, and community outreach will in sha Allah be an asset to Burhan Academy. 

  • Physical Education Teacher: Cliff Paul. Coach Cliff is certified by the NCAA, USA Basketball, and Jr. NBA. He has been the Head Coach for Illinois HoopStars and Power Through Basketball. He has led sports programming for preschool through high school and has also worked with professional adult players.

    He is looking forward to conducting interactive P.E. classes and introducing Burhan Academy students to a variety of sports, in sha Allah.

  • Teacher: Heba Gaafer. 

  • Sh. Ibrahim Orlovic

  • Teacher: Sophia Latifi. Ms. Latifi has a Masters degree in Mathematics for Elementary Teachers and a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education and Sociology. She has 35 years of teaching experience both in Chicago public schools and suburban Islamic schools. She believes that the classroom should be set up to stimulate each student’s unique learning style.

  • Sh. Zain Abid