About Us

Home / About Us

Our School

Welcome to Al-Amal Academy

Al-Amal Academy is a fully accredited, full-time Islamic school for grades K–9 in Calgary, Alberta. Operated by the Pen and Paper Foundation in partnership with the Prairie Land Public School Division, the academy serves the Muslim community of Calgary and beyond.

We are dedicated to fostering academic excellence, strong character, and a sense of community. Our advanced academic program aligns with the Alberta Program of Studies and is delivered through innovative, faith-based teaching practices.

At Al-Amal Academy, students flourish in an environment that seamlessly blends Islamic values with academic achievement—preparing them to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

30+ GRADE 9 GRADUATES

Proud trailblazers of our mission

AWARD WINNING STUDENTS

Champions in Science Fair, Math, Qur'an, and Sports Competitions

QUALIFIED EDUCATORS & SUPPORT STAFF

Passionate professionals committed to nurturing every learner

FOUNDED IN 2020

A beacon of faith, character, and academic excellence for the Muslim community

Faith. Excellence. Community.

Al-Amal Academy is proud to offer a transformative educational experience that blends academic rigour with Islamic values — preparing students for bright futures rooted in character and achievement.

Al-Amal Academy is proud to offer:

Accredited Alberta Curriculum: A comprehensive program fully aligned with provincial standards

Islamic Environment: A nurturing space where faith and learning grow together

Academic Excellence: Students consistently exceed Alberta benchmarks across core subjects

Islamic Studies, Quran & Tahfeez: Deep spiritual learning and memorization programs

Arabic Language Department: Focused on Quranic Arabic as a language offering

Physical Education & Athletics: PE at least three times weekly, plus competitive after-school sports teams

Safe & Caring Community: Built on strong relationships between students, peers, and dedicated educators

PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

Dear Parents, Students, and Community Members:

Welcome to the 2025–2026 School Year at Al-Amal Academy!

As-salaam Alaikum,

I am delighted to welcome all families to a new school year at Al-Amal Academy. Alhamdulillah, it is a blessing to begin another year of learning, growth, and community partnership.

At Al-Amal Academy, we are committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment rooted in Islamic values where every child is respected, supported, and inspired to thrive. Our mission is to empower students to grow in character, knowledge, and faith, while fostering a lifelong love for learning.

Founded on Islamic principles, Al-Amal Academy has always embraced a faith-first approach to teaching and learning, where the pursuit of knowledge is guided by the light of the Qur’an and Sunnah. As the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, ‘Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim’, reminding us that education is both a right and a responsibility. We strive to nurture minds and hearts, inspiring our students to excel academically while remaining firmly rooted in their faith.

This year, we continue to focus on holistic development, supporting not only academic achievement but also emotional and spiritual well-being. Our classrooms are structured, consistent, and engaging, with teaching practices grounded in patience, enthusiasm, and positive reinforcement.

We are incredibly proud of our dedicated team of teachers and support staff. Their compassion, professionalism, and tireless efforts are the heart of our school. Whether through thoughtful lesson planning, warm greetings, or mentoring students, our staff plays a vital role in shaping a positive and enriching learning experience for every child.

We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Syed Raza, who served as Principal with dedication, hard work, and a vision to make Al-Amal Academy the best Islamic school in Calgary. His leadership has left a lasting impact on our school community, and we are thankful for the many ways he helped shape Al-Amal Academy into the nurturing and academically strong institution it is today. We wish him continued success as the Associate Superintendent of Prairie Land School Division.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our Board of Trustees, the Pen and Paper Foundation, and the Prairie Land School Division for their unwavering support and guidance. Their collective commitment to our mission ensures that Al-Amal Academy continues to grow as a center of excellence in faith-based education. Their leadership and resources empower us to provide high-quality learning experiences, foster innovation, and uphold the values that define our school community.

Thank you for your trust, your support, and your active involvement in our school. We look forward to a joyful, enriching, and successful school year together, In Shaa Allah.

Warm regards,
Mrs. Beshta Makhdoom
Principal, Al-Amal Academy

+ About Me

My name is Beshta Makhdoom, and it is a true privilege to serve as Principal of Al-Amal Academy. I step into this role with heartfelt sincerity and a deep sense of purpose, seeing education as both a noble profession and a sacred trust. My vision is to nurture a school community where academic achievement, Islamic values, and the holistic growth of every student are woven into the fabric of daily life.

My journey in education began more than ten years ago as an elementary teacher, where I discovered the joy of inspiring young minds. Over the years, I have taken on roles as Vice Principal and Inclusive Education Facilitator, each experience enriching my understanding of how to uplift diverse learners and lead with compassion. These chapters have shaped my leadership philosophy, rooted in empathy, teamwork, and the conviction that every child is an amanah, worthy of dignity, growth, and gentle guidance. I am grateful to hold permanent teaching certifications in both Alberta and Manitoba, along with degrees in Education and Science from the University of Manitoba.

My commitment to growth continues as I pursue a Master’s in Educational Leadership and maintain certification in the Leadership Quality Standard. With specialized training in educational and psychological assessment, I have had the privilege of leading curriculum innovation, mentoring fellow educators, and launching initiatives that have enriched student learning and brought our school community closer together.

At Al-Amal Academy, my commitment is to cultivate a lively, student-focused environment where learning is purposeful, inspired by faith, and anchored in Islamic teachings. I am excited to walk this path alongside you, working together to shape a school community that embodies our collective values and dreams, insha’Allah.

Beyond my professional life, I am a lifelong learner who finds joy in exploring educational philosophy, tutoring students, and weaving faith and ethics into leadership. With my husband and our two wonderful children, I cherish the adventures of travelling, the tranquillity of nature, the fulfillment of community service, and the power of reflection, all of which keep me grounded and purposeful on my journey.