Shawn Janetzke, MS, BCBA, LABA, a program specialist for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Treatment Team (ITT) Apartment 3, has worked for NECC for seven years and in a variety of roles. He was nominated by a colleague because he is a great resource for members of his team because of his “easy to understand” writing and implementation of guidelines, as well as for the way he creates a learning environment while training others. “Recently, he has been training people on a student who needs special staff training, and his way of training sets us up for success,” shared a colleague. “He is a great mentor who believes in clear communication and sets a goal for you according to your mindset and pace at which you want to grow in the company, which is commendable. He is humble, always available to help us, and he emphasizes safety for both students and staff. I am honored to be a part of his team, and I feel confident working with challenging students every day because of his guidance and diligence.”
How long have you worked for NECC?
Seven years. Prior to my current position I was a level 2 teacher on SIU 2 (the previous name for ITT 2), a residential coordinator on ITT 1, and a day coordinator on ITT 1 and 2.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Working with the students and their families and all of the teachers through some of the most challenging moments of these students’ lives. I love seeing the positive impact the hard work we do with the students day-in and day-out has on the students and their family’s lives in the long term.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I did not expect to. I took an intro ABA class in undergrad with Dr. Tim Vollmer at the University of Florida and everything sort of lined up from there to bring me to the point I am today working with children with autism.
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC?
Yes, I completed the Western New England University ABA master’s degree program and became a BCBA/LABA.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I really enjoy tending to house plants and have over 100 between my apartment and office at work, my favorite being a 10-foot tall Fiddleleaf Fig that I have managed to keep alive for over three years.
Who is someone you look up to?
Assistant Director of Clinical Services Maureen Kelly, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA. She has been a supervisor, mentor, advocate, and role model and has significantly helped shape me into the supervisor I am today.
What is your life philosophy or a motto you like to live by?
Resting and living life is just as important as working hard in order to maintain a healthy work/life balance and be the best you can be personally and professionally. Take the time to rest and recharge!