Caitlin Landry, a level 2 teacher and core shift manager for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Ursla Drive residence, has worked for NECC for almost two years. Landry was nominated by a colleague for being “an all-around team player. She is a wonderful leader and role model on Ursla Drive. Caitlin is a great advocate for the students on the team and for her own case student. Caitlin fulfills many responsibilities on the team: she consistently ensures guidelines are being followed, all staff and students are being kept safe, and is always willing to go above and beyond for her team. Caitlin is the first to step up when a difficult situation arises and works with supervisors when challenges arise,” shared her colleague.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is being able to support my students in making progress academically and in their daily lives.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I chose a career in helping children with autism because I wanted the opportunity to learn more about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and have somewhat of an impact on their lives.
Why NECC?
I chose to work at NECC for the opportunity to work more closely with students who have autism. I thought and continue to think how important it is for teachers to have the opportunity to work with all students off different ages, who are at different ends of the autism spectrum, and who have all different strengths. NECC was a great place to get this experience.
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC?
I started classes for the Simmons University master’s degree this fall and plan on continuing the program!
Who is someone you look up to?
Someone I look up to deeply is my mum. My mum continues to inspire me every day through her work and advocacy for victims. It’s been inspiring to grow up with such a role model who is compassionate and understanding of those who need it the most. She has shown me how to be the best support system for people who have disabilities, for people who have experienced trauma, etc.
What is your life philosophy or a motto you like to live by?
Something I always keep with me every day is that you never know what is happening behind closed doors so always be kind.