Age is really just a NUMBER!

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Engage Better, Reflect Better

TL;DR: Ageism is a valuable topic to reflect on and discuss. There are collaborative strategies you can use to increase student engagement in discussions. As the year goes by, we think of our age as an accomplishment, a number that made meaningful moments matter and time really does fly by. What is important to consider is how age contributes to … Read More

Teaching Gratitude as We Celebrate Thanksgiving

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: This post is about the importance of showing gratitude to the people, experiences, and rewards that we accumulate through life’s journey. Celebrate your students’ cultural celebrations. Find out the “why” of the traditions behind the celebration. Teaching Gratitude It’s Thanksgiving season. I love hosting Thanksgiving meals with family. I have learned over the years that gratitude is one of … Read More

Let’s Talk about Religion as an ism!

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Connect Better, Innovate Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Individuals all have their own religious or faith-based practices they bring into the classroom. Take the time to learn about all the different beliefs and holidays. Reevaluate the options you are giving to students and staff. Make everyone feel welcome. I was taught by my father, my Thathi who said never ever to discuss this topic since it’s political. … Read More

Pack Those Bags! Explore Teaching Internationally

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Connect Better, Manage Better, Teach Happier

TL;DR: Top considerations for teaching internationally include making accommodations, networking, collaborating, building your portfolio, and more. Give back to the world in a way that you never did before or never thought of doing before. I never considered applying to teach at an International School…up until now. If you are considering International Education, here are your top considerations to reflect … Read More

Equity & Inclusion: Diving Deep Into Understanding Classism

Nilmini Ratwatte-HenstridgeBlog, Differentiate Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: Create opportunities to “level the playing field” for your students. Address classism; it benefits everyone by us doing so. Educators hold the key to making a difference when it comes to addressing classism. Deep Diving Into Understanding Classism: Equity & Inclusion Out of all the blogs I have ever yet written, this topic holds the closest spot to my … Read More