As-Sabeel Academy reached a major milestone on Thursday, May 31st, 2017, as it graduated its first eighth grade class, a goal ten years in the making. Three of the students had been attending As-Sabeel since kindergarten when the school was still in its infancy.
Dressed in purple graduation caps and gowns, the students walked into the hall to “Pomp and Circumstance” as the crowd applauded. Eighth grade grads recited Qur’an, received awards, and gave speeches.
It was a proud and emotional moment. “When I looked around at everyone that was there, I was very grateful that I was able to grow up with them,” said Aiya Shiblaq, one of the eighth grade graduates. “I am extremely sad to be leaving As-Sabeel because it wasn’t just my school, it was my family.”
“It was very emotional,” said Johnna Malici, As-Sabeel’s Principal, “not only seeing this group of kids conclude their middle school years, but also realizing that our school had achieved something we have worked so hard on for so many years.”
The graduates are heading to public high schools this fall, well positioned to perform at high levels—all will begin their high school careers having earned high school credits through the classes they took at As-Sabeel. We wish them all the best as they move forward. May Allah make them true successes!