Helen Aroush has been working as a level 2 teacher for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Instructional Program (IIP) for two years. She was nominated by a colleague because she “goes above and beyond as a level 2 teacher and case manager. She arrives at work early every day and ensures her case students’ materials are set up for the day. She is a strong advocate for her case students and always ensures they receive one-on-one time and trips into the community when available. Throughout the day, she actively completes work programs with her students, ensures data is completed, and assists with challenging behaviors. Outside of work, she volunteers to help students’ parents with respite hours. Her hard work always extends beyond the school day and does not go unnoticed.”
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is the students. I love seeing them and watching them make progress in activities that people never thought was possible for them.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I chose to work with kids with autism because I love helping others. I get to help these kids in a different way every day.
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 an outside graduate program, the occupational therapy program at Salem State University. While this is different than most people working at NECC, it has helped me while on shift to think of ways to adapt programs for students.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
Something many people may not know about me is that I love the gym. Despite my busy lifestyle, I always make time for a lift!
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
A life motto I like to live by is “things happen.” Sometimes we can have a bad moment during the day and think the whole day is ruined, when in reality, it is just a minute of our whole day.