Ms. Umachandran is a Canadian-born teacher with a deep passion for music and careers. Although she was born in Etobicoke, she expresses pride in her Sri Lankan heritage.
Music is at the core of Ms. Umachandran’s teaching philosophy. With a love for R&B, and a special admiration for Alicia Keys, she believes in the power of music to inspire, motivate, and bring people together. She runs several musical initiatives, including the North Park Concert Band, where students can showcase their musical talents. She also leads the Music Council, where students can actively participate in organizing events and shaping the music curriculum. Additionally, she is involved in a program called Mentor-Mentee (M&M), where expert students provide guidance and support to aspiring musicians.
In Ms. Umachandran’s classroom, there are some fun traditions. Every day starts with the Song of the Day where students can listen to a song of any genre, artist, or year. This activity allows students to explore various musical styles and discover new favourites. Another tradition is the Community Circle where she engages her students with interesting questions. For example, she might ask if they would like to have a pet pig, or a teacup pig.
Apart from music, Ms. Umachandran is also passionate about drama. She believes that drama is an art form that allows and encourages self-expression and individuality, making it a perfect complement to her music classes. Even so, her favourite subject to teach is music, as she finds immense joy in helping her students explore their musical talents and develop a deep appreciation for the art form.
With three years of teaching experience under her belt, Ms. Umachandran brings a vibrant energy to the classroom. When she’s not teaching, you can find her enjoying her favourite hobby: kayaking. She loves the tranquility of being on the water and finds it to be the perfect way to recharge and find inspiration.
Ms. Umachandran’s message to her students is one of self-reflection and self-care. She encourages them to analyze their playlists, as the songs they choose reveal a lot about their individuality. She prompts them to explore how music can be used for self-care, reminding them that certain genres and songs can evoke specific emotions. She suggests that if a particular genre or song makes them feel good and happy, they can turn to it to uplift their spirits.
In conclusion, Rahkavi Umachandran is an enthusiastic teacher who infuses her love for music into her classroom. With her dedication to helping students explore their musical talents and her belief in the power of self-expression, Ms. Umachandran creates a positive and engaging learning environment.
THE NORTH STAR 