Jasper Suhr, a lead teacher in one of The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Public School Services (PSS) partner classrooms in Derry, NH, has worked at NECC for over four years. He was nominated for staff spotlight because he “exemplifies leadership in every way” and “always brings a positive attitude and a personal touch into the classroom.” In addition to being “well organized, dedicated, and hardworking,” he is “constantly learning and developing best practices for our students. Jasper has a great connection with the students and will often attend PE and art classes, where you will find him joining in whatever activities they are doing.” Another colleague shared that “we’re so grateful for people like him within this community!”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I have worked at NECC since June 2020. I started as a level 2 teacher on the Newcastle Road residential team before taking over the residential coordinator position on Newcastle in December 2021. I joined PSS as a lead teacher in Derry in August 2023.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is interacting with my students on a daily basis and witnessing their growth throughout the year. Additionally, all of the wonderful people I have met through this job and continue to work with every day make up one of my other favorite parts of this job. They are truly some of the best humans, and I am proud to share a common goal with them!
What are your daily duties/schedule like as a teacher in a partner classroom?
A lot of my daily duties center around maintaining my classroom and providing effective academic and behavioral support for my students. I also complete assessments and prepare IEPs. I have had quite a few evaluations and annual review meetings to start off the year, so it has been busy!
What is something you would like people to know about working in the partner program?
I would like people to know that each school and even every classroom has its own culture, but here in Derry, it really feels like we are one unit. We are able to help each other out whenever there is a need. It’s a good community and everyone has the students’ best interests at heart.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
My undergraduate degrees are in computer science and math, with a minor in education, so this was a big move. I came to NECC because I ended up enjoying my education coursework much more than the coursework I completed for my majors, particularly the work I did that related to running after-school programs at a local middle school. Since coming to NECC, I have become engrained in the field, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Why NECC?
I saw the NECC logo at my school’s career center and the organization popped up when I was searching for a job, so I applied. I was interested in a job that would also support me in getting my teaching degree, which worked perfectly with the Simmons University program here!
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 completed the Simmons MSEd graduate program in June 2023, and I am currently enrolled in the Western New England University (WNEU) post-graduate BCBA certification program. The Simmons program taught me to be flexible in my understanding of how students learn and how best to set up academic work for success, which has been very impactful on my classroom decisions. The WNEU program has taught me to be analytical in a more productive way when making decisions regarding behavior plans. This has, in turn, helped me support students every day.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I have had several wild hairstyles throughout my life, including a recurring perm and several mullets. Sometimes you need to spice it up!
Who is someone you look up to?
Josh Allen (quarterback of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills). Go Bills!
What is your life philosophy or a motto you like to live by?
“We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” Also, “The best way out is always through.” Both are reminders that things may be challenging in the moment, but with teamwork and keeping a positive outlook, we can get through difficult times and things will be better ahead.