Back-to-Back Model UN Success: Advanced Academics at The Sage School
Over two consecutive weekends, Sage Upper School students showcased confidence and leadership while tackling complex global issues at Model United Nations conferences: the Boston University Academy Model United Nations Conference (BUAMUN) and the Arctic Model UN Conference at Tufts University. These back-to-back experiences highlight how The Sage School prepares students to engage deeply, think critically, and apply their learning in real-world settings—reflecting the strength of Sage’s advanced academics and gifted education program.
BUAMUN: Preparation Meets Performance at a National Model UN Conference
Now in its eleventh year, BUAMUN is a nationally respected middle school conference hosted by members of Boston University Academy’s award-winning team and held on the BUA campus. Designed to mirror the pace and expectations of high school conferences, the experience features single-delegation committees and dynamic crisis simulations that challenge students to analyze issues, collaborate with peers, and respond thoughtfully under pressure. A wide range of committees—from General Assemblies to specialized and Joint Crisis Committees—creates an intellectually rigorous yet supportive environment well-suited for advanced learners.
After a full month of in-depth research, position paper writing, and collaborative preparation, 16 Sage Upper School students arrived ready to apply advanced academic skills in real-world contexts—an essential component of The Sage School’s approach to advanced and gifted education. Their commitment to excellence paid off, with Sage delegates earning awards in five of the six committees they participated in. This achievement reflects both individual student effort and the depth of Sage’s gifted education programming.
The weekend was made even more meaningful by the presence of Sage alumni—Sebastian J., Mason C., Claire W., Joey R., and Arlsan C.—who returned to BUAMUN as committee chairs and members of the secretariat. Their leadership roles served as a powerful example of the lasting impact of Sage’s advanced academic foundation.
BUAMUN Award Recipients
- Leo K. – Honorable Mention
- Raven R. – Best Position Paper
- Jacob L. – Best Position Paper
- Aya B. – Outstanding Delegate
- Quincy S. – Honorable Mention
- Barbara S. – Outstanding Delegate
- Charles A. – Outstanding Delegate
- Emily Q. – Best Position Paper
- Charlie I. – Outstanding Delegate
- Xavier G. – Best Position Paper
Additional participants included Calvin M., Maria S., Kyle Z., Peter L., Simon O., Marlin C., and Xavier G.
Arctic Model UN Conference: Thinking on Their Feet at Tufts University
The following weekend, Sage students returned to competition at the Arctic Model UN Conference held at Tufts University. Accompanied by Mrs. Anguilla and Mrs. Levesque, 14 students participated in this highly challenging, no-preparation, partner-style conference. Unlike traditional Model UN formats, Arctic MUN required students to deliver speeches, negotiate solutions, and draft directives entirely during committee sessions, demanding quick thinking, adaptability, and strong collaboration.
Sage delegates served on five different committees and earned awards in four of them—a remarkable accomplishment given the conference’s demanding structure.
Arctic Model UN Award Recipients
- Charles A. & Peter L. – Best Delegate
- Raven R. & Simon O. – Best Negotiator
- Jacob L. & Eric J. – Best Public Speaker
- Charlie I. & Barbara S. – Best Negotiator
Additional participants included Aya B., Leo K., Marlin C., Alex A., Quincy S., and Aiden W.
A Reflection of Sage Values
Across both conferences, Sage students showcased professionalism, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to engage deeply with complex global issues—all hallmarks of a Sage education and its commitment to advanced academics. Their success reflects Sage’s commitment to advanced learning experiences that prepare students not only to excel academically but also to lead, collaborate, and thrive beyond the classroom.
We are incredibly proud of our Upper School delegates for their back-to-back achievements and grateful to the faculty advisors who supported them throughout these enriching experiences.