10th ANNUAL HIGHLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL MODEL UNITED NATIONS DAY

Posted by David Lariviere on May 18, 2018

Roger Hassler, President of Medina Sunrise Rotary, delivered the keynote address at the Highland Middle Schools' pioneering Model United Nations Day (MUN) Program. This dynamic program is celebrating its 10th year and was the inspiration of 8th Grade Language Arts teacher Kelly D'Annolfo and co-developed by April Eckman. MUN draws a diverse group of 250 informed 8th grade students and community leaders from "The Highland Family" within Medina County to address current global issues. More than just classes, this represents year-long experiential learning programs that provide students with a better understanding of the inner workings of the UN and a forum to hone skills in diplomacy, negotiation, critical thinking, compromise, public speaking, writing, and research.

Building on strong community partnerships within the schools, with exchange students, local professionals, and international service organizations such as Medina Sunrise Rotary, the Highland Middle School Model United Nations Program is making a difference in the lives of children in our community and beyond. "Our students are learning in global classrooms without walls," said Kelly D'Annolfo, proudly.

“It is a very intense program, beginning with summer essays and culminating in our general sessions and caucuses the following May,” Ms. D'Annolfo added, explaining that Highland's Model UN Day requires knowledge and quick thinking. “It is months of preparation and on-your-feet thinking for this day. Highland Schools have done an excellent job of preparing our students for this global learning experience. Our MUN students are learning how to go from scholarship to service. They are learning how to be truly global citizens, to turn dreams into change, and become tomorrow's future leaders who are united in a shared vision of peace, justice, human rights and sustainable development for all peoples of the world."

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