David Booker, who joined The New England Center for Children (NECC) nine years ago, is a level 2 teacher for NECC’s Intensive Instruction Program (IIP) Cohort G and is also a CALM P trainer. He was nominated by a colleague because “his positive attitude and upbeat demeanor are infectious. The enjoyment he displays when interacting with his peers and the students is a breath of fresh air.”
What is your favorite part of your job?
I’d say my favorite part of the job is definitely interacting with the students and staff. I also enjoy talking to anyone I come across in the hallways.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I had worked at a special needs summer camp for years and I wanted to pursue a similar career after that because the kids had such an impact on my life. Also, both my parents are educators, so It’s kind of like it was destiny.
How did you find NECC and why have you stayed for nine years?
NECC was one of the first places that popped up when I researched jobs teaching students with autism. However, I have been at NECC for so long because I truly enjoy working with the students and I wanted to take advantage of the master’s degree reimbursement program.
What grad programs or teacher training did you take advantage of at NECC?
I took advantage of NECC’s reimbursement program and attended Arizona State University online where I earned a master’s degree in special education (ABA).
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I really enjoy autobiographies. Also, I worked as a production assistant at WABC7 Eyewitness News in New York during my senior year of college and met a few famous people while working there (Kelly Ripa, Mario Lopez, and Kevin O’Leary from Shark Tank).
Who is someone you look up to?
I really look up to my dad.
What is your life philosophy or a motto you like to live by?
One of my favorite mottos to live by is, “It’s all an illusion.” A personal trainer at the gym told me this once and it just always stuck with me.