Outdoor Environmental Education at ICC School
(3:190 Quran) إِنَّ فِى خَلْقِ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضِ وَٱخْتِلَـٰفِ ٱلَّيْلِ وَٱلنَّهَارِ لَـَٔايَـٰتٍۢ لِّأُو۟لِى "ٱلْأَلْبَـٰبِ
“Verily, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the succession of night and day, there are indeed messages for all who are endowed with sight.” (3:190 Quran translation by Asad, 2003)
The natural world is a source of constant wonder, and the Qur’an invites us to reflect on its beauty as a sign of the Creator’s wisdom and majesty. At ICC School, we guide students on a journey of discovery—exploring the beauty and awe of nature as depicted in the Quranic verses, deepening their understanding of Islam’s call to appreciate, preserve, and conserve the environment, and nurturing a sense of spiritual connection and responsibility toward the Earth.
Our students connect with nature in 670 acres of a wildlife preserve. Students explore the mature forest, streams, ponds, 8.5 miles of hiking trails, woodland, and nature museum at Westmoreland Sanctuary in Mount Kisco, NY, while deepening their connection to nature, all living things, and most importantly, to their true selves and abilities.
Our students learn about Islamic values through nature. Through hands-on projects and guided discovery led by educators in environmental studies, curriculum design, and Islamic studies, students explore key Islamic values such as the oneness and interconnectedness of creation, compassion toward all living beings, ethical stewardship of the environment, and living in balance while avoiding excess and waste.
Our students are offered a wide range of outdoor environmental education lessons. The naturalists and our teachers design lessons that foster a deeper understanding of nature appreciation, preservation, and conservation. Lesson topics include the local area’s flora and fauna, seasonal changes, pond and forest ecology, animal anatomy, biomimicry, survival skills, conservation efforts, and basic chemistry.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE SAYING
Our deen significantly impacts our attitude towards nature by teaching us to respect it, care for it, and offer high regard to its well-being.
One day, Sa’ad ibn Abi Waqaas was making wudu, or ablution. As a matter of fact, Sa’ad was known to be very devoted to the word of Allah. Prophet Muhammed observed that Sa'ad used an excessive amount of water to wash. He stopped him and said “What is this extravagance, oh Sa’ad?” To which Sa’ad then replied, “This is extravagance?” The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) replied, “نَعَمْ وَإِنْ كُنْتَ عَلَى نَهْرٍ جَارٍ” “Yes, oh Sa’ad, this is extreme extravagance, wasting, even if you are by a flowing river.” It is still considered a waste, even if there is an endless supply of water, right at his feet. This is why we have to be mindful about how much we are using, even if there is an endless amount.
Islam is more than just a faith - it’s a way of life that guides us in everything we do. From protecting our health to caring for our Earth, our deen teaches us responsibility, respect, and balance. If we follow these principles, we not only strengthen our connection with Allah but also build a better world. So let’s live our faith with purpose, and strive to make a difference every day.
— Written by S. H., Seventh Grade
