New Islamic Schools Open in Amherstburg, Expanding Student Capacity

A new educational facility for Windsor’s Islamic schools is set to welcome students this academic year. On Sunday, representatives from the An-Noor Private School and Windsor Islamic High School officially opened their new location at the former Western Secondary School in Amherstburg. The event included members of the Windsor Islamic Association (WIA) and local government officials.

Dr. Osman Tarabain, a board member of the WIA, highlighted the importance of the new facility, stating, “In the current facility, we can accommodate about 600 students.” As of now, approximately 350 students are enrolled in the elementary school, while 80 students are starting at the high school. The previous site on Janette Avenue, acquired in 2003, has become too small to meet the demand. With the new building spanning 95,000 square feet, the WIA anticipates attracting families from outside the Windsor-Essex area.

Interest in the school is growing, particularly from families relocating from the Toronto region. “We have been approached by families from the Toronto area who are looking to relocate to this region, and the first thing they ask about are schools,” Tarabain noted. He emphasized that many families expressed interest in the new facility and are eager to know its opening date to finalize their relocation plans.

Earlier this month, the WIA announced the acquisition of the property from the Greater Essex County District School Board. Following the closure of the sale in June 2022, the building was listed for sale in the fall of that year. Since purchasing the property, the WIA has invested approximately $300,000 in renovations, which include cleaning, painting, and updates to classrooms and washrooms. Tarabain mentioned that additional renovations will be made in the back of the building, but will not disrupt the school’s operation.

At the beginning of the school year, the two institutions will employ around 25 staff members. The WIA is optimistic about the potential for future growth. As the student population expands, the size of the new property should facilitate further development to accommodate increasing demand.