The Heartwork Classroom

The Heartwork classroom is an intentionally designed learning environment that cultivates emotional, social, and ethical development alongside intellectual growth. Rooted in the pedagogical tool of "heartwork," this classroom focuses on creating space for students to engage in practices that promote emotional intelligence, self-awareness, dignity, respect, empathy, and ethical decision-making. It emphasizes the importance of connection, belonging, and compassion in learning, fostering a classroom atmosphere where students feel valued, heard, and understood.

Teachers in a Heartwork classroom are not only committed to nurturing these qualities but are also deeply aware of the toxicity of anti-Blackness and its impact on students. Heartwork spaces recognize that anti-Blackness in the Muslim community and wider society is real, and they intentionally push back against this socio-spiritual ailment to nurture true belonging for all students. By addressing and challenging anti-Blackness within the classroom, these educators create spaces that affirm the dignity and humanity of all students. This work cultivates an environment promoting prophetic belonging, ensuring all students are empowered to thrive.