Katie Mulholland, a lead tutor in a Partner Program Classroom in Derry, NH, has worked at The New England Center for Children (NECC) for two years. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight because she is “dedicated to and passionate about her work. She has an amazing instinct for seeing how a student might better understand something she is teaching them, and the way she can adapt the general education classroom material to help students in the inclusion classroom is truly amazing to see. She is such an amazing asset to the team and to all of her students.”
What is it like working as a tutor in the Public School Services (PSS) program?
Working as a tutor is truly wonderful work. It is constantly changing, and I am always moving. I help my students in every aspect of their school day, which ranges from academic work, going to things like recess and Unified arts, prompting and assisting social interactions with my students, and helping build self-help skills. The PSS program gives both my students and me a sense of community as well.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is how much my students make me laugh. We have such a fun time together, and I love watching them meet their goals. I enjoy seeing them interact with their peers as well and seeing them break barriers that kids with autism face. They make me proud every single day. Lastly, I love collaborating and leaning on my coworkers, with whom I have built some amazing relationships.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I chose to work in this field because I ended up loving a job I took working with children with autism. After that, I knew I could never do anything else.
Why NECC?
NECC is such a great organization for individuals who have autism. Once I heard about the work NECC does, I immediately looked further into it and realized my beliefs aligned with NECC’s mission, and this is the work I wanted to do.
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 the Simmons University graduate program for my master’s degree in education for severe disabilities with an autism specialization. After every class, I feel I am able to take what I learned into work the next day. No matter how big or small the topic may be, I am constantly able to apply what I’m learning in the program to my job. I often think about my students while in class as well.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
My colleagues may be surprised to learn how much I love to read! I try to read at least 40 books a year, and I cherish my Kindle more than anything.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my mom. She is the hardest worker I know, and I feel she has given me her work ethic. She taught me that you can make amazing things happen if you show up and work hard.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
My philosophy in life is to always be kind. You will never regret showing somebody kindness, and you never know how your kindness can turn someone’s day around.