Amanda Foley has worked as a level 2 teacher for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Instruction Program (IIP) for two years. She was nominated by a colleague because “everything she does is in the best interest of the students, and she has assumed a lot of responsibilities to ensure that they succeed. Amanda started at NECC right out of college only two years ago, but is one of the strongest teachers I’ve ever worked with in my six years at NECC.”
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is working on vocational skills with our students and bringing them to job sites. Being able to help them be active parts of their community is so rewarding, and it’s great to be able to see them use all the skills they’ve acquired during their time at NECC.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
My boyfriend’s little brother has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I knew him before his diagnosis and have watched as his team has worked together to help him continue to grow and flourish. I knew early on that I wanted to be part of a team like that and have an impact on students’ lives.
Why NECC?
I had always heard great things about NECC and knew that if I wanted to learn more about autism and work with children with autism, NECC was the place to be!
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC?
I am going into my second year of the Simmons University master’s degree program. The program has helped me approach situations with a new perspective and has taught me how to make sure all my students feel included and important.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I crochet! I make blankets and stuffed animals in my free time.
Who is someone you look up to?
One person I look up to is my fellow level 2 teacher, Linda Lawton. She trained me when I first joined the team. She is an incredibly kind, patient, and thoughtful teacher. She truly is such a good teacher and someone I aspire to be like every day.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
“It’s a great day because of you”- this is a quote from one of my students.