“Preserve the Italian cultural heritage.” That’s not just a motto. It’s the very foundation upon which the Scuola Italiana di Montevideo was built. Founded in 1886 by Dr. Leone Maria Morelli and a group of Italian immigrants, the Scuola Italiana di Montevideo stands as a testament to their desire to keep their heritage alive in their new home.
Initially, the Scuola Italiana di Montevideo aimed to provide an education that honored Italian traditions. Over time, it evolved into a bilingual institution, integrating both the Italian and Uruguayan national curricula. This unique approach opens doors for students to a multilingual and multicultural world.
The Scuola Italiana di Montevideo began in a different location. As student numbers grew, the school commissioned a new building in 1909. Italian engineer Luigi Andreoni designed it. For over 60 years, the Scuola operated from those premises. The first Casa dei Bambini which is a preschool, was also inaugurated during this period.
In 1973, the Scuola Italiana di Montevideo moved to its present location. This quieter residential area provides a stimulating environment. The campus now sprawls across 13 hectares. It features three buildings surrounded by parkland and sports fields.
Imagine children learning in an environment that promotes contact with nature. The Scuola Italiana di Montevideo offers just that. It caters to students from three months old to 18 years old. It provides an invaluable opportunity for learning and socializing. The spacious premises include five courts and four gymnasiums.
The Scuola Italiana di Montevideo is more than just a school. It’s a community. The school board comprises volunteers from diverse professional fields. They work to implement the school’s key values and principles. The management team oversees day-to-day operations. This team includes the Head of School, school principals and the General Administrator.
This institution has produced some notable alumni. Diego Forlán who is a famous footballer, attended here. Irene Moreira, a politician, is also an alumna. Lorena Ponce de León, a landscape architect and former First Lady of Uruguay, also walked these halls.
The Scuola Italiana di Montevideo also maintains international connections. For over two decades, it has had a relationship with Park Tudor School in Indianapolis. Middle school students from Scuola Italiana visit Park Tudor. In return, Park Tudor students visit the Scuola Italiana every other year.
As you stand here, consider the generations of students who have passed through these doors. The Scuola Italiana di Montevideo continues to honor its mission. It guides students to become autonomous, creative and caring people. It prepares them to play an active role as global citizens in a multicultural and multilingual world.