1- INTRODUCTION
1.1 A NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Esteemed Members of Our Community, Parents, Teachers, Staff, and Students,
It has been an honor to serve as the newly appointed principal of the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh. I am excited to embark on this journey with you, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome I have already received.
Being an educator for more than 25 years in multiple educational settings nationally and internationally has provided me with great opportunities to be close to students, parents, families, and communities from different backgrounds and ethnicities. My goal is to work diligently to provide students with the best opportunities, quality education, and leadership practices and help them be successful in their future.
As we begin this new chapter together, I want to share my vision for our school. Our mission remains rooted in the principles of Islam, aiming to nurture not only the academic growth of our students, but also their spiritual, moral, and social development. InshaAlla, we will strive to create an environment where all students feel valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
As we move forward, I invite everyone to join me in making dua for the success of our school. May Allah (SWT) bless our efforts, guide our actions, and grant us the wisdom to fulfill our responsibilities with sincerity and excellence.
Thank you for your trust and support. I am eager to know every one of you and to work together to achieve our shared goals.
Wa Asslamu Alykum wa Rahmatu Allah Wa Barakatuh
Dr. Alia Arafeh
Principal
Universal Academy of Pittsburgh
1.2 PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK
The purpose of the Student Handbook is to give students and their parents/guardians an understanding of the general rules and guidelines for attending and receiving an education at the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh (UAP).
In case of conflict between a policy put forth by the Board of Directors and the provisions of this handbook, the board policy most recently adopted by the board will prevail.
Because policy adoption and revision is an ongoing process, this document will be reviewed annually and can be amended at any time at the discretion of the board. The handbook is a contract between the school and parents/guardians or students. If policy changes are enacted during the school year, the administration will communicate those changes to students, staff and parents/guardians.
1.3 VISION STATEMENT
To create a school recognized for its rigorous curricula in both core academics and Islamic knowledge by fostering students that preserve Islam and Islamic identity while becoming positive and productive members of the society.
1.4 MISSION STATEMENT
To provide academic excellence in core curricula to our students guided by Islamic principles in a safe and nurturing environment.
1.5 GUIDING PHILOSOPHY
In order to achieve the above mission, it is important for UAP staff and faculty to remember:
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Parental involvement, cooperation, and support are essential for the success of the school.
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The school atmosphere and environment must be consistent with Islamic teachings and morality, according to the “middle-path” understanding of Islam.
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Curriculums must be balanced across the standard and religious studies.
1.6 NON-DISCRIMANATION POLICY
The Universal Academy of Pittsburgh (UAP) is an equal opportunity education employer and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, and handicap in its admission, activities, programs, or employment practices.
1.7 CONTACT INFORMATION
Principal: Alia Arafeh
Email: aarafeh@uapschool.org
Address: 2103 Hampton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15218
Phone: (412) 241-2124
Fax: (412)-241-2123
Website: www.uapschool.org
Admin email: admin@uapschool.org
1.8 SCHOOL CLOSINGS, DELAYS AND EMERGENCY
UAP follows Pittsburgh Public Schools for weather-related school closings and delays. Please check the local news for closing and delay listings. The school will send a notification on closing or delay the earliest possible.
1.9 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors is the governing body for UAP. The board seeks to guide and support the school administration; develop procedures for operations, academic standards, and policies for the school; evaluate school performance; develop objectives for the academic school year; provide financial transparency to all parents.
Members for the 2024-2025 school year are as follows:
Dr. Ahmed Abdul Wahab, Dr. Fatma El Hamidi, Dr. Ibrahim Abukhiran, Aisha Ali, Omar Hemmali, Bekmurod Rustamov.
Members of the board can be contacted via email at uapboardofdirectors@uapschool.org
1.10 FACULTY
UAP strives to provide highly qualified and experienced educators. Our teachers are positive role models dedicated to the school’s mission and student success. Our educators work hard to stay abreast with the most current teaching pedagogies and are active in their pursuit of professional development. Our educators strive to model tolerance, cooperation, and public service to our students.
1.11 PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)
PTO membership is open to all parents and teachers who wish to be active in contributing to the success of UAP. The purpose of the PTO is to provide a medium for constructive
parent communication, involvement, and participation. The PTO enhances the educational experiences at UAP and plays a key role in making activities and events at UAP successful. To get involved with our PTO, please contact: new_pto@uapschool.org
1.12 Amendments &/or Addendums
The Board of Directors, the managing board of the school, reserves the right to modify any policies or procedures at any time. Ideally, timely notification will be announced, although changes are considered adequate without such notice.
In the event of amendments or addendums during the school year, a written notice/email will be sent to parents, so that they are aware of these changes