Sophie Bolinger, a level 2 teacher and core shift manager (CSM) for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Francine Road residential team, has been working at NECC for two years. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight by multiple colleagues for being an “amazing team leader who goes above and beyond for students and staff. Sophie is a dedicated case manager, and she has an incredible rapport with all of our boys. She deserves recognition for how hard she works!” A second nominator said that she is a “great teacher and coworker. When on shift, she is always showing the best energy, engages with the students, and advocates for them. She’s a great role model and leader.”
What is your favorite part of your job?
There is nothing more rewarding than laughing with my students and seeing them smile. I also love being a case manager because I get to work with families.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism? Why NECC?
When I first applied to NECC, I wanted to go to school for occupational therapy (OT). I hadn’t had much experience working with children with autism, so I wanted to gain experience for a year or two before applying to OT school. NECC seemed impressive, and I thought it would be a good place to start. Within the first few months, I fell in love with the job, the students, and applied behavior analysis (ABA). I quickly realized I wanted to change course, and I’ve never looked back. I feel so fortunate that NECC sort of fell into my lap and completely changed my life.
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 my first year in the Western New England University master’s program in ABA. I believe my experience in the master’s program has helped me as a shift manager because I can understand the rationale for all student programming and communicate it effectively to my colleagues. As I learn more about ABA, I realize how important every response from a teacher can be to the long-term well-being of our students. It makes me appreciate how difficult our job is, and I think we should all feel really proud!
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
I think my colleagues may be surprised to know that I was very shy growing up. Working with the students at NECC has inspired me not to worry so much about what other people think.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my younger brother. He has always been a natural leader in every environment he encounters. He is a strong leader because he is charismatic and tough, but also because he is a team player who will never leave another person behind. I’ve admired this about him since we were kids, and I try to emulate his leadership style in my own professional life.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
My parents have always taught us to focus only on the things within our control. I try my best not to worry about someone or something that I cannot change, because that takes energy away from my ability to do good for myself and others.