Amy Doyle, a level 2 teacher and core shift manager (CSM) for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Higley Road residential team, has worked at NECC since September 2022. She was nominated by a colleague because of the support she provides for her team.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part about my job is the fact that I learn something new every day and no two days are ever the same. Seeing student and staff progress is also so reinforcing!
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
My 9-year-old brother has autism and has been receiving services since he was two. My family took full advantage of family training, and we all got involved. Seeing my brother’s progress was incredible over the years; he has had some great teachers who have made a huge impact on our family. I wanted a career helping children with autism to have a similar impact on families like mine.
Why NECC?
I knew I wanted to get my master’s degree in applied behavior analysis (ABA), and I loved that NECC allows staff to get hands-on experience while also working towards earning a master’s degree. I was involved in ABA research during my undergrad and NECC has so many opportunities for staff to get involved in research.
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 in my second year in the Western New England University master’s degree program in ABA. Everything we learn in class ties into what we do every day at NECC. I have learned that there truly is a reason for why we do everything that we do with our students, and this program has helped me understand the why.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I was born in and grew up in Ireland. I am fluent in the Irish language (Gaeilge) and attended an all-Irish-speaking school until I was 17.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my parents! My mom was a first-generation college student, and my dad did not have the opportunity to attend a four-year college. My parents have worked so hard to provide my brothers and me with as many opportunities as possible. They are supportive of everything that we do.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
Progress is not always linear!