Vanesa Valdes, a level 2 teacher for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Salem End Road residential team, has worked at NECC for a year. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight because she “goes above and beyond to make meaningful relationships with her students and is always willing to help fellow staff. Vanesa is a great resource and is so supportive!”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I am currently a core shift manager (CSM) on Salem End but previously worked as a backup CSM and level 2 teacher on the ITT Apartment 3 team.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part is getting to work with such wonderful students and helping enrich their lives.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I found I had a passion for working with individuals with autism while doing research during my undergrad. And I had also seen that there is so much room for growth within the field.
Why NECC?
One of my mentors from my undergrad program introduced me to NECC and all the professional development opportunities offered to staff. I was excited to find a place that aligned with my goals of positively impacting and creating change for those we serve.
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 second year of the Western New England University master’s degree program in applied behavior analysis (ABA). The information I have learned so far has taught me how to create a compassionate environment for our students.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my previous and current supervisors here at NECC. I am grateful to have this opportunity to learn from great clinicians.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
“Be the change you wish to see in this world.”