The ARK Academy Weekend Program aims to offer an environment for participants of various ages to foster a stronger connection with the Quran and a deeper understanding of Islam.
ARK Academy Weekend Program

Saturday and Sunday Programs
The longstanding Weekend School program, a cornerstone of Islamic education for children, has transitioned from the Islamic Educational Center of Orange County to ARK Academy. These programs continue to provide children aged 5–14 with an engaging and supportive environment to learn about the Quran and Islamic values. The formative years are an ideal time to cultivate a strong foundation of faith and a love for Islam in a structured classroom setting while fostering meaningful connections with peers. Our dedicated teachers nurture spiritual growth and instill God-consciousness through the teachings of Islam and the Quran. Additionally, students develop Farsi language skills on Saturdays and Arabic language skills on Sundays, deepening their understanding of both faith and culture.
Enrollment for the fall semester opens in June, when the enrollment form will be available online. Student enrollment will be finalized at the start of the fall season.
Monthly Youth Quran Discussion
Our Monthly Youth Quran Discussion is a unique opportunity for young minds to explore the teachings of the Quran in an interactive and welcoming environment. Each month, participants gather to delve into selected verses, uncover their meanings, and reflect on their relevance in today’s world.
Guided by Sayed Mahdi Qazwini, these sessions encourage thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, and personal growth. The program fosters a deeper connection to faith while addressing the real-life challenges faced by youth.
Open to participants aged 15 and above, this program is both educational and empowering, offering a platform for youth to deepen their understanding of the Quran and build meaningful connections within their community.
Sessions are typically held on the third Saturday of each month, but we encourage you to check our Instagram page for the most up-to-date schedule and announcements.


Spiritual Reflection Space
The Spiritual Reflection Space provides a peaceful setting for prayer and contemplation. This dedicated space allows the children and youth – and anyone who visits – to step away from distractions and engage in quiet reflection within a supportive environment.
In addition to prayer, the space is used for small-group discussions that encourage meaningful connections and personal growth. Through quiet solitude or thoughtful conversation, worshippers have the opportunity to strengthen faith and deepen a sense of community.