Laleh Ghotib in her classroom
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and has special significance in Islam. Muslims believe the first verses of the Quran - Islam's holy book - were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad at this time.
The daily fast in Ramadan includes abstaining from all food and drink; those participating do not even sip water from dawn to sunset before breaking the fast in a meal known as “iftar” in Arabic. Those fasting are expected to also refrain from sin and increase good deeds. Ramadan also includes giving to those in need. Many Muslims provide gifts, money, and food supplies to those who are suffering.
My dear friend and former student, Laleh Ghotbi, from Westminster University’s Master of Arts in Teaching program, provided these ideas for us. She teaches 4th-grade teacher at Riley Elementary School and lives in Salt Lake City – Utah, with her husband and their two children. She is also a member of Hope Street Group, a Utah Teacher Fellow, and was one of the four finalists for the Salt Lake City School District's Teacher of the Year 2023-2024.
How to support our students during Ramadan?
1- Supportive classroom environment:
Fostering a supportive educational environment is crucial, as well as respecting students' religious practices, especially during fasting, by avoiding food-centric celebrations and not eating or drinking in front of fasting students. If possible, educate yourself and the class about Ramadan to promote understanding and respect among all students. This could include lessons on cultural diversity, religious practices, and the significance of fasting.
2- Flexible schedule, especially testing time:
Consider the energy levels of fasting students and, if possible, schedule demanding tasks or assessments during the morning when their energy might be higher.
3- Provide quiet and calm down spaces during lunchtime:
Offer a quiet space for students who are fasting to spend their lunchtime or break times. This can be a classroom or a section of the library where they can rest or engage in low-energy activities.
It's essential that your fasting students feel valued, respected, and cared for.
More from Ms. Ghotbi about being a Muslim in Utah.
What other ideas have you implemented to support fasting students?