Yoselin Hernandez-Avalos, a level 2 teacher for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Treatment Team (ITT), was nominated by a colleague for Staff Spotlight because “she consistently goes above and beyond to support the team. She’s always ready to lend a hand, whether it’s problem-solving or offering guidance. Yoselin is incredibly knowledgeable about her students and their needs, and she always makes time to listen with empathy. Her kindness and dedication make a real difference to everyone around her.”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I’ve worked at NECC since August 2023 as a level 2 teacher for ITT 2, and I am currently the core shift manager (CSM) in a clinical role for ITT 1.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is continuously building on the relationships and rapport I have with my students; nothing is more rewarding than sharing an inside joke with them! I love to help them achieve new milestones and facilitate their access to exciting opportunities, like vocational jobs, community movements, or meeting one of their academic goals. I work with six wonderful boys in Apartment 1 and my relationships with each of them have impacted my life dearly.
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
During my undergraduate years, I worked as a registered behavior technician (RBT), and witnessing the impact that applied behavior analysis (ABA) can have on a child’s quality of life was truly inspiring. Seeing these changes firsthand motivated me to pursue a career in ABA to be part of a team that helps make that happen.
Why NECC?
One of my undergrad mentors graduated from the Western New England University (WNEU) program while working at NECC and spoke so highly of the opportunities she encountered during her time here. I felt like the obvious next step for me was working at 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?
Yes! I am currently in my second year of the WNEU program, and I have learned so much about behavioral interventions. I am fortunate to have mentors who provide opportunities to apply what I’ve learned and who continue to support my professional development.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
They might be surprised to learn that I’m obsessed with slime videos, and I love to collect slime tubs.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my mom. She is the strongest person I know, and I always look to her for advice.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
Focus on what you can control and accept what you can’t.