STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Amy Sparkes
Amy Sparkes, a lead teacher in a Partner Program Classroom in Chelmsford, MA, was nominated for Staff Spotlight because she "is an incredible leader and mentor."
NECC in the News: Behavioral Health Buoys
NECC was included in a recent Boston Business Journal article, entitled “Behavioral Health Buoys,” about the challenges Massachusetts is facing in building a workforce to meet the growing behavioral health needs.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Justin Bashaw, MSEd
Justin Bashaw, an ACE® client support specialist, was nominated for Staff Spotlight because he “goes above and beyond to be a friendly face and ACE expert for both our clients and for NECC staff."
NECC Celebrates AAC Awareness Month
This October, NECC is celebrating Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Awareness Month. The NECC community of speech-language pathologists (SLPs), families, and educators are raising awareness about the pivotal role that AAC plays in empowering individuals to communicate and engage with their community.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Colleen Mills
Colleen Mills, a level 2 teacher for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Treatment Team (ITT) program, has worked at NECC for three years. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight because she “goes above and beyond for all of her students, ensuring they receive compassion, dignity, and respect."
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Summer McGowan
Summer McGowan, a level 2 teacher and core shift manager (CSM) for one of The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Treatment Teams (ITT), was nominated for Staff Spotlight by her colleagues because “she’s a great leader and is very compassionate and understanding."
When the Community Becomes the Classroom
This summer, NECC’s ITT students had the opportunity to explore more of their community — including taking a hike, blueberry picking, and an ice cream trip — thanks to an initiative developed by the team to increase student opportunities for academic and social enrichment.
NECC Students Participate in Special Olympics Track & Field Event
The spirit of community and celebration was palpable on August 13 as the NECC Special Olympics Track and Field event took place at Marlborough High School. This marked a significant return to local competition after a hiatus, bringing back the excitement and camaraderie that defines the Special Olympics.
Summer Interns Reflect on Invaluable Experience
For ten weeks over the summer, 60 interns from 36 colleges and universities nationwide received hands-on learning and training through NECC’s award-winning programs. For two of NECC’s interns, this summer helped them realize the potential the field of autism education holds.
Acts of Generosity: Linda Donahue’s Legacy of Giving
Linda Donahue’s journey with NECC spans over three decades, during which she has become a cornerstone of the agency. With a calm demeanor, a friendly personality, and an unwavering commitment to the mission of NECC, Donahue has left an indelible mark on the countless students and fellow staff whose lives she has touched.