In 1996 a concerned group of parents from the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati (ICGC) sought the best way to educate children in an atmosphere of academic excellence. A religious-based philosophy of caring discipline and parental involvement guided the efforts and decisions of the group. Their combined personal commitment and strong faith insight led to forming the International Academy of Cincinnati; a full-time, independent, fully accredited, licensed chartered private school in West Chester, Ohio. The school is located on the grounds of the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati and is a separate and distinct organization with its own governing board of directors.

All faiths and ethnicities are welcome. The Academy has a number of students and faculty that are Non-Muslim, bringing the strength of diversity and multiculturalism.

A rigorous academic program is the main focus of the Academy. The teachers at the Academy are licensed in their subject areas and committed to delivering quality education. The early childhood program is Montessori based. Students in grades one through eight score significantly above average on the SAT (Stanford Achievement Test) every year. The school has implemented Ohio’s New Learning Standards for math, English language arts, social studies and science.

Fine arts, technology and physical education subjects, as well as extracurricular activities and field trips, help develop the creativity and self-expression needed for students to reach their greatest potential.

The study of Arabic as a foreign language, the Qur’an and Islamic Studies emphasize knowledge and build high moral character, integrity and respect. This aspect of the curriculum is what distinguishes the Academy from other private and public schools.

The school board has 11 members and meets on a quarterly basis. The board is comprised of members of the community, retired educators and Academy parents. The Academy also has a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) which is open to all parents who have students enrolled in the school. The PTO participates in afterschool programs, fundraising and supporting the Academy in various ways.

School principal, Marie Marawi, invites interested parents and students for an on-site tour of the Academy. She says, "We hope you will find that the Academy is truly a special place, providing your children with the best educational experience of their school years." 

El Sewedy International Academy is located at 8094 Plantation Drive, West Chester, OH 45069. For more information, call 513.755.0169 or visit www.intlacademy.org.