A Lesson on Empathy: Refugees and the UN Rights of a Child

Advertisement

Originally published in TEACH Magazine, 75 Years of the United Nations Special Issue, 2020

By Michelle Watrin

“All right Rubin, can you read from the UNICEF website under the Rights of a Child?” It was September of 2015 and the new school year was off to its usual start as I began teaching my class about global poverty and inequality issues through the UN Rights of a Child.

The school where I was teaching at the time was located in the inner city of Abbotsford, BC. My students represented a variety of cultures and worldviews. My first impressions were of a lively, fun group, but I could tell there would be a few classroom management challenges.

We were known as Pod J because the school follows the practice of “looping,” which meant I was their teacher for two consecutive years—Grade 6 and then, Grade 7. Little did I know that what started as a simple lesson plan would become a two-year journey and one of the most incredible teaching experiences of my career.

Subscribe to Keep Reading

🔑 You’re one step away from unlocking exclusive content.
Subscribe now for full access.
If you’re already subscribed, please .

Michelle Watrin has been a teacher in the Abbotsford School District for over 20 years. An avid lover of the outdoors, she, her husband, and four kids enjoy spending their time camping, kayaking, hiking, and biking. She is currently teaching online in the transitions program at Clayburn Middle School.

Education News

5 Reasons Why Green Schoolyards Earn an A+

Green schoolyards benefit the children who use them by improving mental health, physical health, and learning outcomes.

What Do We Already Know About Our High Schoolers?

The recent cancellation of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) for 17-year-olds has sparked legitimate concerns about lost data.

Carhartt Celebrates Skilled Trades Educators Across America

Workwear brand commits $150,000 to support skilled trades education through grant and educator awards.

Whole Child, Whole School: Prioritizing Student Wellness

Imagine an elementary school where wellness isn't just a buzzword, but a cornerstone of student success.

Join Our Newsletter

Receive the latest news and announcements. Plus, receive 10% off a subscription!

Michelle Watrin
Michelle Watrin
Michelle Watrin has been a teacher in the Abbotsford School District for over 20 years. An avid lover of the outdoors, she, her husband, and four kids enjoy spending their time camping, kayaking, hiking, and biking. She is currently teaching online in the transitions program at Clayburn Middle School.

Advertisement

Read More

Reframing Student Data for Growth

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities grow through effort and persistence. This mindset shapes how we view data.

5 Reasons Why Green Schoolyards Earn an A+

Green schoolyards benefit the children who use them by improving mental health, physical health, and learning outcomes.

Farm Boy Expands nourish to flourish to Support More Ontario Schools in 2025

Farm Boy is excited to announce the expansion of its flagship charitable program, nourish to flourish, which focuses on improving student access to nutritious food and teaching young Ontarians the importance of healthy eating for life.

What Do We Already Know About Our High Schoolers?

The recent cancellation of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) for 17-year-olds has sparked legitimate concerns about lost data.

Standing with Educators: Everywhere, Every Day, and Always

Education knows no borders. The challenges teachers face—whether in Canada, the U.S., or beyond—are shared struggles, and the victories of one classroom ripple across many.

Carhartt Celebrates Skilled Trades Educators Across America

Workwear brand commits $150,000 to support skilled trades education through grant and educator awards.