Imagine families arriving in New York City to work for the United Nations. They faced unexpected challenges finding the right school for their children. That’s how the United Nations International School was born.
The United Nations International School UNIS is a private school established in 1947. It was founded to provide an international education. The school preserves students’ diverse cultural backgrounds.
K. T. Behanan and his wife played a key role. They arrived from India in May 1947. They helped the UN with educational policy. Behanan became chairman of the school’s board.
Initially, the United Nations International School UNIS was located at Lake Success. Today, the United Nations International School UNIS has over 1600 students. The Manhattan campus is near the United Nations headquarters. Until 2022, there was also a campus in Queens.
The United Nations International School UNIS was a pilot school for the International Baccalaureate IB. It was among the first to award IB diplomas. The curriculum prepares students for the IB program. The United Nations International School UNIS aims to enable students to study at top universities. This applies to both the United States and the rest of the world.
English is the main language at the United Nations International School UNIS. All students study French or Spanish from Kindergarten to 12th Grade. Other languages are also available. These include Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese and Russian. They begin in 7th Grade. Students choose one of these languages. They continue it along with English and either French or Spanish. Additional languages can be studied. This can be done within or outside the school.
The school’s current director is Dan Brenner. The United Nations International School UNIS is a member of several prestigious organizations. These include the Council of International Schools and the International Baccalaureate Organization.
From Kindergarten to 12th Grade the school offers a specially designed curriculum. Students can enroll for the International Baccalaureate Diploma or IB Courses. They can choose from over two hundred course combinations.
Classes are relatively small. Kindergarten averages 17 children. Grades 3-4 average 19. Middle and high school average 21. Emphasis is placed on preparation for the IB exams. Children of UN employees enjoy priority in admissions. However admission is not automatic. All children must be interviewed and assessed in person.
Nearly all graduates attend four-year colleges. Most enroll in colleges in the United States. Others attend universities in thirteen countries outside the U.S.
Each year, the United Nations International School UNIS organizes a Model United Nations conference. It takes place in the General Assembly Hall of the United Nations. High school students from other schools are also invited. This event allows students to improve their public speaking and diplomacy skills. It also allows them to engage with real-world issues.
The United Nations International School UNIS was founded in 1947. In 1964, the Ford Foundation offered a conditional donation for a new school building. Sweden and Libya also contributed funds. The main building on 25th Street opened in January 1973. It marked the first permanent location for the school.
Notable alumni include writer Ishmael Beah and actress Yasmine Bleeth. Also actress Kate Burton and basketball player Joakim Noah.
The United Nations International School UNIS stands as a testament to its enduring legacy. The United Nations International School UNIS empowers young minds. The school embraces diversity. It champions global understanding. The United Nations International School UNIS inspires positive change on a global scale.