Jenny Loring, MS, BCBA, LABA, a senior consultant in The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Consulting and Public School Services (PSS) Department, began her journey at NECC nearly 20 years ago. She was nominated by a colleague for Staff Spotlight because she is “always very positive and upbeat. She has great relationships with students and is a valuable resource to staff. She stays up to date with the latest best practices and is very knowledgeable in a wide array of applied behavior analysis (ABA) techniques and tools. She is able to provide constructive feedback while making staff feel capable and confident in their abilities. Jenny is an amazing person to work with.”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I have worked at NECC since August 2005. I worked as a level 2 teacher on Higley Road for two years, and then as a residential coordinator and day coordinator on Higley. I worked in the Abu Dhabi program for three years and was a specialist my last year in the program. After moving back to the States in 2022, I was a specialist on the IIP program from 2012-16, and then I moved over to PSS.
In light of Marathon Monday in a few days, what was it like representing Team NECC in the Boston Marathon in 2008 and 2022?
I loved running in both Boston Marathons for NECC. My first marathon in 2008, I was able to see some of my residential students (I was a residential coordinator on Higley at the time) cheering me on in Ashland. The Marathon in 2022 was so fun and I was able to see and take pictures with so many NECC supporters. I love NECC and it was amazing to run the marathon and support an organization I feel so proud to work for.
What is your favorite part of your job?
The students are the best part of the job; they always have been, and they always will be. I love collaborating with other educators (NECC lead teachers and consultation with public school teachers) to brainstorm strategies for improvements and see the implementation of changes result in progress.
What are some of your duties working as a consultant in PSS?
As a senior consultant, I provide consultation to public schools and serve as clinical supervisor in three partner classrooms. I work very closely with lead teachers to monitor student progress and areas of challenge (academically, socially, and behaviorally). As partner classrooms are partnerships between a public school and an ABA-based NECC program, a lot of time is spent collaborating with school administration, parents, and public-school educators.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I spent a lot of time working in the public schools as part of my minor in education in college. I spent one semester helping out in a self-contained classroom with young students that had a range of disabilities. I didn’t realize it at the time, but the special education teacher was utilizing ABA-based practices. I was so impressed by her positive energy and compassion for her work. The students were so endearing, and I remember being excited about the prospect of working with children with severe disabilities as a career choice.
Why NECC?
I went to Bates College in Maine. NECC was trying to recruit graduates from Bates, Bowdoin, and Colby, so I applied for the job. Linda Donahue interviewed me in Maine at Colby College.
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC?
I received my master’s degree in ABA through the Northeastern program in 2009.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I played collegiate squash.
Who is someone you look up to?
My parents are incredible people. They are funny, loving, and generous.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
I am not sure I have a life philosophy, but I would say this… no one is perfect. All we can do is try our best and give ourselves grace when things don’t unfold as planned. The important thing is to keep going. That is all that really matters.