The Islamic Education Foundation of New Jersey (IEF) stands as a pillar of Islamic education and community development in the United States. Founded in 1984, the organization began as Al-Ghazaly School, located at the Islamic Center of Jersey City near Communipaw Avenue. The pioneering founders envisioned creating a faith-based environment that would serve future generations of Muslim students and families in Northern New Jersey.
At a time when Islamic educational options were limited, Al-Ghazaly School became the first Islamic K–12 institution in Northern NJ, setting a precedent for excellence in both academics and moral development.
Years of Growth and Expansion
During the 1990s, the Muslim population in Northern New Jersey grew rapidly, creating a greater demand for structured Islamic education. In response, three major mosques—Islamic Center of Jersey City (ICJC), Islamic Center of Passaic County (ICPC), and New Horizon Islamic Educational Center (NHIEC)—joined forces to create the Islamic Education Foundation (IEF) as it is known today.
This collaboration allowed IEF to expand its reach and resources, ensuring that students had access to high-quality education grounded in Islamic values.
In 1995, IEF took a major step forward by purchasing two additional buildings:
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Prospect Park, NJ – became the site of Al-Himah Elementary School, serving the community’s growing number of younger students.
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Teaneck, NJ – became home to Al-Ghazaly High School, the flagship institution of IEF.
Over the years, IEF schools have produced graduates who excel academically, professionally, and civically, becoming leaders in various fields across the United States. The network is now recognized as one of the premier Islamic educational organizations in North America
A Modern Campus for a Growing Community
In 2013, to meet the needs of second- and third-generation Muslim families, Al-Ghazaly High School relocated to a modern campus in Wayne, NJ, on Black Oak Ridge Road. This move reflected IEF’s commitment to evolving with the community while upholding its core mission: providing faith-based education that combines academic excellence with Islamic values.
The new campus offers expanded facilities, advanced educational programs, and extracurricular activities, giving students a well-rounded environment to grow intellectually, spiritually, and socially.
Looking Ahead: 40 Years and Beyond
As the Islamic Education Foundation of NJ approaches its 40th anniversary, it continues to serve a rapidly growing Muslim community. The educational challenges facing Muslim families have evolved, but IEF remains steadfast in its dedication to cultivating civic-minded, professionally successful, God-conscious Muslim leaders.
With the will of Allah, IEF looks toward the future with renewed commitment—to strengthen its institutions, expand its programs, and continue nurturing future generations of Muslims who are confident in their faith and equipped to excel in the modern world.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in Jersey City to its current role as a leading educational institution in New Jersey, the Islamic Education Foundation has had a transformative impact on Muslim education in the region. Its journey reflects the growth, resilience, and vision of the Muslim community in Northern New Jersey—and its story continues to inspire.