Global Learning in Action: Preparing for Montessori Model United Nations

This year marks our third year sending a student delegation to the Montessori Model United Nations (MMUN) Conference in New York City, and we are incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work our students have invested throughout this experience. MMUN brings together Montessori students from around the world to practice diplomacy, collaboration, and global problem-solving while learning about the real work of the United Nations.

Throughout the school year, our student delegates prepare extensively for the conference. Each delegation represents a specific country, and this year our students are representing Somalia. In order to represent their country responsibly, students study the role and work of the United Nations, analyze real UN resolutions, and research the policies and perspectives of Somalia as well as other nations involved in global issues.

Preparation for MMUN is both rigorous and rewarding. Students conduct in-depth research into their assigned country, create a presentation display on their country's history, culture, economy and government, and write a formal position paper, supported with citations, outlining their country’s stance on the issues being discussed. Sources include actual position papers from the United Nations representatives of their chosen country. These papers go through a structured review process, including peer review and evaluation by the MMUN secretariat and committee using a detailed rubric. Students also prepare and practice delivering a formal speech and develop the diplomatic skills needed to debate, negotiate, and collaborate with other delegates.

The students also worked very hard to raise their own funds to pay for the program. Over the years, students have fundraised by holding garage sales, bake sales, creating crafts and dedicating their holiday or birthday gifts towards paying their own portion of the fees.

At the conference, students join hundreds of Montessori students from around the world to participate in committee sessions. Working together, delegates discuss global challenges and collaborate to draft resolutions—proposed solutions to real-world issues. These resolutions are then presented to the full assembly of student delegates, where they are debated and ultimately voted on for adoption, mirroring the procedures used by the real United Nations. This year, they worked on resolutions to address access to health care, migrant rights, the situation in the Sudan, climate change, and human genome cloning.

Our delegates also chose to take on an additional challenge this year by participating in the conference’s cultural talent presentation. Three of our students worked with our school’s clinic manager, Renee Arias, to create and perform a bachata dance that celebrates the vibrant Hispanic culture represented in our school community. Performing in front of an international audience of student delegates required courage, confidence, and teamwork, and our students represented our community with grace and pride.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pxPKJvyn4I

Experiences like MMUN reflect the heart of a Montessori education. Students develop research skills, public speaking confidence, cultural awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively to address complex global issues. Most importantly, they begin to see themselves as capable global citizens who can contribute to positive change in the world.

We are incredibly thankfor for Mrs. Kimberly Falgas, our middle school teacher, who coordinated this program for the second year. She ensured that students prepared properly and understood the issues and how to engage while in session.

Interested in learning more about the Montessori Model United Nations Program? You can find more information on their website: https://montessori-mun.org/

Interested in being part of this experience? Incoming middle school students who are curious about global issues, enjoy research and debate, and want to represent our school at Montessori Model United Nations are encouraged to join the program next year. This is a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, engage with students from around the world, and participate in an unforgettable learning experience.