232) Life-Centered Education 101 (Sally Ratemo & Donica Merhazion)
Thu Dec 11 2025
In this second-to-last episode of Identity Talk 4 Educators LIVE, I sit down with two powerful voices in inclusive and student-centered education, Sally Ratemo and Donica Merhazion, learning support educators from the International School of Kenya (ISK). Together, we explore how they are redefining inclusion, belonging, and identity-affirming practice in international school settings.Drawing from their collaborative work in ISK’s Life-Centered Education (LCE) program, as well as their recent presentation at SENIA Unplugged, Sally and Donica share the strategies, mindsets, and community-centered approaches that help neurodiverse learners thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We unpack the importance of psychological safety, culturally responsive pedagogy, co-teaching partnerships, and the intentional use of digital tools, all while centering humanity and student dignity.
Finally, Donica shares about her newest book, "Born at the End of the World" and the journey she embarked on to complete it.To learn more about Donica's work, you can visit her website at dmerhazion.com or follow her on Instagram (@donica_merhazion) and LinkedIn.
To learn more about Sally's work, you can follow her on LinkedIn.
BIO: Donica Merhazion is a middle school educator with extensive experience in special education, specializing in Orton-Gillingham instruction and inclusive practices that address diverse learning needs. Her expertise includes implementing Responsive Classroom strategies and blended learning to create dynamic, student-centered environments. She is committed to differentiated instruction that prioritizes individual strengths and challenges, fostering self-worth and confidence while addressing the unique needs of students with disabilities. By designing equitable, inquiry-driven learning experiences, she equips learners with critical thinking skills and resilience, empowering them to overcome barriers and thrive as lifelong learners.Sally Ratemo is an international special education teacher with a master's degree in both special education and leadership. She is passionate about each student's unique needs and thrives on building the student's strengths and confidence in order to foster their social and academic growth. Sally believes that by being seen, valued, and accepted, all students can reach their full potential and contribute purposefully to our ever-changing world. She has a passion for equity and inclusion which is continually inspired by her culture, family, and students.
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In this second-to-last episode of Identity Talk 4 Educators LIVE, I sit down with two powerful voices in inclusive and student-centered education, Sally Ratemo and Donica Merhazion, learning support educators from the International School of Kenya (ISK). Together, we explore how they are redefining inclusion, belonging, and identity-affirming practice in international school settings.Drawing from their collaborative work in ISK’s Life-Centered Education (LCE) program, as well as their recent presentation at SENIA Unplugged, Sally and Donica share the strategies, mindsets, and community-centered approaches that help neurodiverse learners thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We unpack the importance of psychological safety, culturally responsive pedagogy, co-teaching partnerships, and the intentional use of digital tools, all while centering humanity and student dignity. Finally, Donica shares about her newest book, "Born at the End of the World" and the journey she embarked on to complete it.To learn more about Donica's work, you can visit her website at dmerhazion.com or follow her on Instagram (@donica_merhazion) and LinkedIn. To learn more about Sally's work, you can follow her on LinkedIn. BIO: Donica Merhazion is a middle school educator with extensive experience in special education, specializing in Orton-Gillingham instruction and inclusive practices that address diverse learning needs. Her expertise includes implementing Responsive Classroom strategies and blended learning to create dynamic, student-centered environments. She is committed to differentiated instruction that prioritizes individual strengths and challenges, fostering self-worth and confidence while addressing the unique needs of students with disabilities. By designing equitable, inquiry-driven learning experiences, she equips learners with critical thinking skills and resilience, empowering them to overcome barriers and thrive as lifelong learners.Sally Ratemo is an international special education teacher with a master's degree in both special education and leadership. She is passionate about each student's unique needs and thrives on building the student's strengths and confidence in order to foster their social and academic growth. Sally believes that by being seen, valued, and accepted, all students can reach their full potential and contribute purposefully to our ever-changing world. She has a passion for equity and inclusion which is continually inspired by her culture, family, and students. LINKS: Instagram Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts