Miranda Cox, a residential coordinator for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Westborough I residence, has worked at NECC for five years. Cox, who began her journey at NECC as a case manager for the Higley Road team, was nominated by a colleague because “she is super helpful, especially to those who are new, and her way of dealing with staff is amazing! She is friendly, knowledgeable, and always on top of everything.”
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is all the accomplishments my students achieve, whether small or large. I enjoy working with the older students, seeing how much progress they have made over the years, and setting them up for success in their adult lives.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I have always had a passion for education, science, and helping people. My original plan was to become a genetic counselor, which led me to gain experience working with diverse populations. I only planned to be at NECC for a year, as I did not know much about applied behavior analysis (ABA) or working with this population of students. However, all the important work I have done and everything I have learned made me want to stay, and now I have a new purpose in life!
Why NECC?
My mom is an educator and spoke highly of all the amazing things NECC does and has to offer. I applied for the experience but stayed to follow my new passion and to further my education.
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 enrolled in the Simmons University master’s degree program and will be graduating in May with my Master of Science in Education with licensure in severe disabilities. My time at Simmons has taught me to think outside of the box when it comes to teaching students with disabilities and to not be afraid to push students or hold them to high standards. I have learned a lot about the impact that finding appropriate accommodations and modifications can have on a student’s learning.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
In college, I wanted to be a marine biologist and maybe study sharks before I realized how hard organic chemistry was, which drew me to genetics and biology instead.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my mom and dad who have worked so hard to get to where they are in life and for always supporting me in everything I do; they never fail to be there for me! I also look up to all my past supervisors on Higley Road who have inspired me to pursue a career in working with children with autism.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
My philosophy is to take things one step at a time.