The Montessori Program

Montessori supported the work of the League of Nations and its successor the United Nations as a forum where peace could be created. She recognized the hope for peace lay in the education of children.

The Model United Nations program was developed for students in high school and universities to learn about the work of the UN by doing it, as well as learning important life skills. Montessori Model United Nations has partnered with the United Nations to create a program for Montessori students who at at the sensitive period for reason, justice and morality can participate in a life changing experience.

The Montessori Model United Nations program culminates classroom or after school study with a two day global education simulation experience at the United Nations that enables students in upper elementary, and middle schools to learn about the operations of the United Nations and its role as the world’s largest international peacekeeping and humanitarian organization. In addition, like the high school and university Model United Nations Programs, MMUN provides students from 9-15 years of age an opportunity to:

• Learn about cultures, governments and peoples of nations throughout the world.
• Use research skills, writing skills and written & oral communications skills.
• Develop critical thinking skills, problem solving skills and evaluative skills.
• Debate current global issues and world problems.
• Practice and use leadership skills in a real life global situation.
• Understand the need for peace and conflict resolution throughout the world while developing their own conflict resolution and debating skills.

Through the process of role-playing, each student becomes a delegate of a selected nation. They write, present and debate issues affecting their nation and peoples of the world. By assuming the character of a citizen of their selected country they fully develop an understanding of the needs of a people and the importance of accepting differences.

To understand the impact of MMUN on students, read Why the Model UN? by Montessori graduate Ben Camus.