Renee Makiling Portillo, a rehabilitation counselor on The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Westborough 2 residence team, has been working at NECC for over a year. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague for “her kindness, positive attitude, and patience working with our students!”
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part is being with my lovely students each day, and being able to support, guide, and help them to develop their skills to their highest potential. Also, witnessing their meaningful growth each day, capturing the sweetest smiles on their faces, and tuning in to their cutest giggles and hearty laughs.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I chose this career because it’s a career of love, joy, and fulfillment despite the tough times and challenges. It’s more of a “calling” that fulfills the purpose of my life.
Why NECC?
I worked at the Saint Martin de Porres Special School in the Philippines for four years, then I worked at the Dubai Autism Center for 13 and a half years before I came to NECC. While at the Dubai Autism Center, we used to attend trainings at NECC in Abu Dhabi. In 2022, my colleague, Mohamad Usman, told me about the opportunity here. The interview sparked my interest in working in both school and residential settings, as my experience had always been in the school setting. NECC has given me a valuable opportunity to better understand individuals with autism and how to support them both at school and at the residence. NECC furnishes me with immeasurable personal growth and professional fulfillment. I am truly grateful, blessed, and proud to be part of NECC.
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC? If so, how has it affected your teaching style?
NECC offers many opportunities that encourage and support all staff to improve their professional development in this field. I am planning to enroll in the Western New England University applied behavior analysis (ABA) master’s degree program, hopefully in 2026.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I have been in this field for almost 19 years, and every day is a new learning experience. I am looking forward to more years. I have also dreamed of being a race car driver, but life does not permit this.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my Mama and my Papa. They gave me life and brought me up with their unconditional love. I am the person I am today because of them.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
God has a beautiful plan for each of us, and He has his own perfect timing. Keep the faith!