Olivia Pandola, a teacher in The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Instruction Program (IIP), has worked at NECC for two years. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight because she is “such a great teacher and coworker” and “a pleasure to work with.” Her colleagues shared that “Olivia consistently goes above and beyond for our students and is a teacher everyone should look up to. She is kind, caring, and energetic, and is always putting her whole heart into everything she does. She inspires us to be better!”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I’ve worked at NECC since August of 2022. I am currently a shift manager on Cohort E of the IIP but have also worked as a sleep data analyst, lead case manager, and a level 2 teacher.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I absolutely love and am so honored to watch the growth each student individually makes. It’s inspiring!
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I’ve always known special education is something I wanted to be part of and have been working in special education classrooms since I was in fifth grade.
Why NECC?
I chose NECC because this organization represents something much bigger in the grand scheme of society. Our students truly motivate me to be more compassionate, more open to advocating for proper services, and simply make me a happier human.
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 currently in my third year of the Western New England University (WNEU) program, and I cannot even begin to describe how much I’ve learned in the last few years. I’m so thankful for the program and each professor who has pushed me to reach my fullest potential.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I am obsessed with tiny cooking videos. They’re so cute and satisfying to watch!
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my mother who is a cancer survivor. She’s the strongest soul I’ve ever known and continues to persevere despite any complications or battles thrown her way.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
I like to live by the mottos, “Be the change you want to see in the world” and “Go big or go home!”