Sarajane Hersey works in The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Partner Program as a tutor at a middle school in Derry, NH. Prior to working in the partner program, Sarajane was a level 2 teacher on NECC’s New Castle Road residential team. She was nominated by her colleagues because “each day, Sarajane shines a positive and uplifting light to the classroom community. She has exceptional experience participating in parent clinics, IEP meetings, monitoring student progress, and implementing individualized student programming. During a time of need, Sarajane took action and subbed as a short-term lead teacher. Her dedication to the students, flexibility, and willingness to go above and beyond has not gone unnoticed. We are very lucky to have Sarajane on our team!”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I have worked at NECC for almost three years now. I started on residential on New Castle Road, and I now work in the partner program in the middle school in Derry, NH.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is watching my students make breakthroughs and seeing them feel proud of themselves.
What are your daily duties/schedule like as a tutor in Derry?
My daily schedule typically begins with getting students off the bus, running their IEP objectives each hour, taking them to specials such as art and gym, and ending the day summing data and working on program updates.
What is something you would like people to know about working in the Partner Program? Something people should know about working in the Partner Program is the benefit of bringing students to inclusion. Watching your students form relationships with peers in general education and thrive in the inclusion setting is so exciting to see!
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I chose a career in helping children with autism because I’ve always loved working with kids, and I majored in communication disorders in college. I realized I wanted to help children who needed the extra support to reach their goals.
Why NECC?
I chose to work at NECC after finding their booth at my school’s career fair during my senior year of college. I discovered the number of opportunities available for both students and staff and knew that it would be a great place to work.
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC? If so, how has it affected your teaching style?
I am currently in the severe special education master’s program with Simmons University and am in the middle of my second year. I’ve already learned so many tools to incorporate into my teaching style now and in the future.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
Something my colleagues may be surprised to learn about me is that I have a twin brother! We don’t really look alike.
Who is someone you look up to?
I’ve always looked up to my parents, who have taught me to work hard, be kind to everyone, and have supported me through all of my endeavors.