Jackie Mombourquette, a tutor in The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Partner Program in Derry, NH, has worked at NECC for almost two years. She was nominated by a colleague because she “has gone above and beyond to make me feel welcomed at NECC. She is always the first person in and the last one out and is always coming up with creative and fun lessons for our students. Jackie is someone you can always go to when you have a question or need help with a student. I am lucky to have her as a mentor.”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I started at NECC a year and a half ago, which is equivalent to two years in the partner school.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part is building rapport with students, witnessing their progress, and keeping everything (including assignments) as fun as it can possibly be for all staff and students involved!
What are your daily duties/schedule like as a tutor in a partner classroom?
I primarily oversee my case student, their work, and all of their behaviors and related data. However, we all work 1:1 with all students in the classroom each day, attend inclusion classes with general education peers, and modify curriculum when needed.
What is something you would like people to know about working in the partner program?
It is so different, yet so amazing to be part of two communities! At my school in Derry, we are considered part of the entire special education program and get to involve our kids with so many different classes and events that any high schooler would appreciate. All of us teachers, the students, and the entire school community are part of the success of any and all partner programs.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
Both my brother and I are neurodivergent in some way. I started working with children with autism back in high school and absolutely fell in love. Now I aim to always be the teacher that I needed in high school, as well as a heavy advocate for every child with autism!
Why NECC?
The research conducted by NECC was some of the first research that I came across while getting my master’s degree in applied behavior analysis (ABA). I knew NECC had such a high reputation within this community and our mission really spoke to me, so it was an easy choice.
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 started working at NECC after I had already graduated from Northeastern University with my master’s, however, I have taken advantage of getting my BCBA hours from my supervisor and plan to attend the Western New England University PhD program in the future.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I have found that as teachers, we have all maintained our inner child’s attitude and ability to have just as much fun as the kids and keep learning in the process; it goes both ways!
Who is someone you look up to?
My little brother, for being so resilient given his multiple diagnoses and inability to communicate. He’s such a gem!
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
Stay fierce! Be a fierce advocate for yourself, your friends and family, and all the lives you touch in some way, including our amazing students.