Despite controversy, classes start at city's first Arabic school

(Brooklyn-WABC, Sep. 4, 2007) (WABC) -- School was in session for a new city-sponsored Arabic academy in Brooklyn. The Khalil Gibran International Academy's 55-students arrived for class amid increased security, after a summer of controversy.

The controversy continues, despite the fact the school's doors still opened, this afternoon, opponents of the new academy held a news conference at City Hall. They were concerned with the new school.

But, despite all the controversy, it did little to dampen the spirit on the first day of school.

Stepped up security, a crowd of media and a group of supporters all greeted parents and students as they arrived for the first day of classes at the Khalil Gibran International Academy.

"No I am not nervous about her coming to this school. I'm very excited and I hope she learns a lot. It's something different, something that hasn't been offered in Brooklyn before," parent Jua James said.

The opening of the new public school which offers instruction in Arab language Middle Eastern culture, follows a storm of controversy.

The school's first principal resigned last month. Its original location was in Park Slope and some opponents feel it will teach Islam.

"It's absolutely inaccurate, and it's a public education and it's going to be measured on that," said NYC DOE's Garth Harries.

"I'm nervous because when you have a lot of people you have a lot more attention on you, I'm nervous. But, I'm so excited for my son and excited for him to learn Arabic," said parent Najat Handou.

Administrators say enrollment at the 60-student school is almost full. Sixth graders were the first students to fill the classrooms.

Parents feel the school's small size is a big plus.

"More attention for him...it will give him a chance to learn more, instead of crowded classrooms....and now he'll get the special attention," says parent Janelle McCants.

Besides reiterating that the school is a public school and not a private school, the NYC Department of Education said that the excitement and classes were the same as any other school. The teachers and students got to know each other, teachers handed out the curriculum and homework followed.

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