Shaye VanDyne, a level 2 teacher and senior case manager, has worked at The New England Center for Children for three years. VanDyne began her career at NECC working on the Adult Services team as a senior case manager on Brewer before joining Cohort G in the Day program at the start of this school year to complete her practicum year for the Simmons University graduate program. A colleague nominated VanDyne because she is a “dedicated teacher and case manager. She works hard to ensure that all of our students are making as much progress as possible. She is a leader and team-player in the classroom. She seeks out new experiences and opportunities so that she can continue to grow as a teacher. She always has a positive attitude. She is flexible and willing to do whatever she can to help the day run smoothly! She is truly a pleasure to work with and we are so lucky to have her as a teacher in Cohort G.”
VanDyne is one of 38 NECC staff who will graduate from Simmons this Friday with an Autism Specialization Master of Science in Education degree. She was nominated for and won the Kennedy Award, which is presented “in recognition for leadership with children with disabilities and their families, the ability to make a difference in people’s lives, the ability to enhance Simmons’ leadership and example in special education, and demonstration of academic excellence.”
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love seeing my students make progress toward their goals!
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
My mother, who has since retired, was in the field for many years teaching adolescents and young adults with learning disabilities. I loved going to her work after school and interacting with the students. It quickly became a passion of my own!
Why NECC?
I worked with a parent of a child who attended the Home-based Program who recommended NECC to me.
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC? If so, how has it helped you as a teacher?
Yes, I am graduating from Simmons this May! It has been an excellent program and learning experience!
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I love to ski and golf!
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my Mom and Dad.
What is your life philosophy or a motto you like to live by?
“If you get a chance – take it. If it changes your life – let it.”