Breaking Diplomatic Grounds: Ridgewood Montessori Students Shine at UN

A Journey of Dedication and Love: From Paramus to New York City

Middle school students of Paramus, NJ attending Ridgewood Montessori School embarked on a journey of global diplomacy and leadership as they participated in their second Montessori Model United Nations (MMUN) conference in New York City. The students, representing diverse towns across Bergen County, including Fair Lawn, River Edge, Westwood, Bogota, and beyond, made an indelible mark at the conference held in the vibrant heart of Times Square.

Welcomed by Global Leaders: Opening Ceremony Highlights

The conference kicked off with a flag-welcoming ceremony, speeches from MMUN staff and the founder, addresses from dignitaries, and a video message from the representative for the mayor of New York City, commending the students for their dedication to global issues. Among the messages to the students was a video message from the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, who warmly welcomed the delegates, setting the tone for an eventful conference filled with engaging discussions, collaborative resolutions, and insightful debates.

Global Collaboration: Crafting Solutions in Committee Sessions

Joining the conference, MMUN delegates from around the world arrived in New York City, ready to tackle pressing global issues. In committee sessions, the delegates presented their positions, surveyed related subtopics, and collaborated with peers to craft resolutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Over two days of deliberation and writing, the delegates narrowed down the topics, engaged in debates, and ultimately voted on resolutions to be presented at the United Nations General Assembly.

A Historic Moment: Advocacy Leads to United Nations General Assembly

Amidst the anticipation, a moment of uncertainty arose when the United Nations initially denied the delegates access to the General Assembly. However, a Bulgarian delegate’s impassioned advocacy turned the tide, paving the way for 5 out of the 14 Ridgewood Montessori students to experience the esteemed assembly firsthand. This rare privilege was extended to only 36 MMUN delegates out of over 1,500 conference participants. Their presence at the United Nations General Assembly, facilitated by the Bulgarian delegate’s fervent advocacy, marked a historic milestone for the students and their school.

Reflection and Accomplishment: Ridgewood Montessori Looking Towards Tomorrow

As the MMUN delegates returned home, their experience at the United Nations serves as a catalyst for future endeavors. Their remarkable journey exemplifies the transformative power of education in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Ridgewood Montessori School, located in Paramus, New Jersey, fosters creativity and leadership in children from the age of 18 months through eighth grade. The MMUN experience enriches their academic journey and instills in them the values of compassion, empathy, and global citizenship. Looking ahead, the school eagerly anticipates next year’s conference, where the seventh graders who attended this year will lead and mentor the incoming sixth graders, continuing the legacy of excellence and leadership.