While Muslims still make up a small population at Grandview, it’s still important to note how participating in Ramadan affects students physically, academically, and mentally. 

One of the most significant facts about the month of Ramadan is that you must strictly fast without food or water from sunrise (Fajr) to sundown (Maghrib).

“I always get asked ‘even water’ every year. It’s kinda turned into a meme for Muslims, since so many people still don’t know,” Senior Mareea Elmagbari said. 

Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam focused on fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. Muslims aim to purify their hearts, practice kindness, and engage in charity. It is a time for spiritual growth and strengthening one’s connection with God, as it is believed the Holy Quran was revealed during this month as guidance for humanity.

“I try to work on myself the entire month. Like praying more, giving charity (zakat), being kinder, working out, stuff like that,” Senior Sofia Tahseen said. “I think it’s important for the majority of Muslims to try to improve.” 

Ramadan is based on the lunar Calendar, so it changes by about 10 days each year. For example, last year’s Ramadan started on March 11, 2024, and this year, Ramadan started on March 1, 2025. So, it’s important for students to balance Ramadan and school. 

“[School] gives me something to do, which is good. But it gets really tiring,” Sophomore Manar Bouaziz said. 

Many students experience fatigue at school due to factors like fasting and lack of sleep. Most Muslim students wake up at around 5 AM to eat Suhoor, and sometimes do not even sleep at all. Students also struggle with hunger and thirst as they cannot eat or drink at all during the day.

“Some days you don’t feel it, and some it’s hard to even pay attention in class,” Bouaziz said. 

Both students and teachers alike need to recognize these challenges and find ways to support fasting students. 

“I think the biggest thing for me is being patient and understanding. Having teachers that understand that sometimes you need an extension or just can’t give your best that day makes all the difference,” Elmagbari said. 

Though it varies between each student, so talking one-on-one with Muslim students can help as well.

“Talking one on one to see if the student needs something specific during Ramadan is really important because it changes for each student,” Bouaziz said. 

As Ramadan is coming to a close, with 6-7 days left students are left feeling disappointed. The end of Ramadan is seen as an improvement and growth, which makes the ending sad. 

“It’s the time of the year where I really try to lock in with my deen and spend more time with my family. I also spend more time in tune with my culture, so I am just kind of sad about it,” Elmagbari said. 

The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration marking the completion of fasting and a renewed commitment to faith and community. It is a joyful occasion filled with prayers, feasts, and giving to those in need. 

“I’m excited. I usually do something fun with my family [on Eid] and spend time with friends. I also like the gifts a lot. I think I may do white elephant with my friends this year,” Elmagbari said. 

Though it is hard, it is worth it for many students, as they get to grow spiritually and personally. School can be tiring, but with the right support, it can be manageable and rewarding. As the month ends, it’s a time to celebrate and reflect.