Montessori Model United Nations - Notes from Rome..
July 23, 2024

Montessori Model United Nations (https://montessori-mun.org/) is an organization that gives students the opportunity to share their solutions for real-world problems. One of the main differences between this and a regular Model United Nations setting is that rather than being a debate or having a winner, the conference is collaborative.


Schools from all around the world went to the Rome MMUN conference and shared ideas based on their research. Each pair of students, called delegates in the conference, study a country and focus on a committee. Our class was part of two different committees that studied Sudan. Norah and Joya were part of the Food and Agriculture Organisation(FAO), and Elise and Emilio cooperated in the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN). Throughout the school year we worked with our teacher, Paul, to research these topics and created a position paper and a one-minute speech. With thorough research on Sudan and our committee topics, we were able to contribute in Rome.


At the Rome conference, we made friends and connections with fellow delegates from all around the world; some came from Morocco, Peru, Azerbaijan, and the Philippines. Our favorite part of the conference was being able to meet students in a new setting and then being able to work with them on solving problems that would help other people around the world. Despite the language barriers and different backgrounds, we still were able to collaborate and have fun. There were morning activities, celebration nights, and fun and interactive working sessions. We all shared our views during the working sessions but also made sure to include and listen to the opinions of others.


After the MMUN conference, we were able to go around the city and sightsee. Famous sites we visited include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the St. Callisto Catacombs, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pantheon, and the Pompeii ruins on our final day. One of the most impressive things we saw were the Vatican museums because not only were they the home to one of the biggest religions in the world, but also because they hold some of the best artworks in the world. The city has sites from thousands of years ago, hundreds of years ago, and five years ago all in one street. Being able to go on a school trip with a school like TRIS taught us values like responsibility, having to create an itinerary for the trip, and independence.


Elise Tan and Norah Abid 2023-24

The Renaissance International School

Renaissance Reflections

By Renee Hites • September 23, 2025
This year we are beginning a series of lunchtime virtual sessions for Parent Education. Once a month we'll invite a host from our knowledgeable TRIS staff to present on a topic related to our school philosophies. Our first session was held in September and was hosted by our Head of School, Renee Hites.

Where Learning Meets the Great Outdoors

July 11, 2025
Exploring the Bay Area: A One-of-a-Kind Summer Camp Adventure Summer is a time for discovery, and at Exploring the Bay Area, our elementary Montessori students experienced a week like no other. Guided by the ever-enthusiastic wilderness guide and Montessori Elementary instructor, Nathalie Hites, the camp transformed each day into a journey across the diverse and stunning landscapes of the Bay Area. From riding buses and BART to catching the Ferry, students didn't just learn about the place they live — they lived it. Each day brought new ecosystems, unforgettable views, and hands-on experiences that made learning an exciting adventure. Monday: From Woodlands to Waves Students kicked off the week with a deep dive into the natural treasures, exploring oak woodlands, sand dunes, and the stunning ocean beaches — all in a single day! It was a perfect introduction to the varied ecosystems right in San Francisco’s backyard. Tuesday: Scaling Mt. Diablo Their journey continued with a trip east to Mt. Diablo, where students learned about the chaparral, grasslands, and fascinating local geology. A highlight of the day was climbing through Rock City, where students could physically interact with the landscape they were learning about. It was both educational and exhilarating! Wednesday: Wetlands and Water Fun at Brannan Island Midweek took them to Brannan Island State Recreation Area, where students explored the vital role of wetlands in our environment. The warm weather also provided a perfect excuse to cool off — and yes, a dip in the water was part of the day's fun. Thursday: Into the Redwoods at Muir Woods Students explored the awe-inspiring Muir Woods, home to the towering redwoods that define Northern California. Walking beneath the canopy, students were immersed in the unique ecosystem of the redwood forest — an experience that inspired both wonder and curiosity. Friday -Wonders at the Cull Canyon To wrap up our week, students headed to Cull Canyon, where they observed more oak woodlands and explored a riparian corridor — a lush, biodiverse area along the creek. And yes, the week ended the way it began: with sunshine, laughter, and a refreshing swim! Exploring the Bay Area wasn’t just about field trips — it was about connecting students to their environment, deepening their appreciation for nature, and fostering independence through real-world exploration. Whether hiking, swimming, or simply observing a new ecosystem, our students walked away with more than knowledge — they gained a sense of place and belonging in the world around them.  Stay tuned for more updates from our Montessori adventures — and until then, keep exploring!