Introducing São Paulo and Graded
Graded, the American School of São Paulo, is the hosting school for the 2014 SPMUN conference. Situated in the neighborhood of Morumbi, Graded School boasts a long history. The school was first established as a two-room schoolhouse with six students and two teachers in October 17, 1920. In 1961, the school moved to its current campus location on Avenida Giovanni Gronchi.
Since its establishment, Graded, also known as Associação Escola Graduada de São Paulo, has become an international school with a total of 1,225 students from Kindergarten to grade 12. Not only has Graded increased in size and number, but it has also become a culturally dynamic and diverse community. Graded students represent over 35 different countries, of which Brazilians are most represented, composing about 42% of the student body. American/Canadians are second most represented (31%) followed by South Americans (10%), Asians (10%) and European/other nationalities (7%). Model United Nations is a popular after school activity here at Graded. In fact, it is the largest club in high school.
São Paulo, located in the southeast of Brazil, is not only the largest city in the country, but it is also the largest city in both North and South America. As a populous city, São Paulo is the economic, political and social mecca not only of Brazil, but of the South American continent. Many important events are held at in the city, the most recent one being the opening match of the 2014 World Cup. Other events include São Paulo Art Biennial, the Brazilian Grand Prix of Formula One and São Paulo Fashion Week.
In addition to its influence as a city, São Paulo is also known for its diversity and the dynamic mix of cultures. It is home to the largest number of Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Spanish, Lebanese and Arabic ethnics living abroad. The Italians have established their place in neighborhoods like Bixiga, Bras and Mooca while the Asian ethnic population concentrate around the Liberdade neighborhood.
